JOHANNESBURG – A prominent South African medical doctor, Dr Leonard Mhinga (73), husband of legendary South African musician Yvonne Chaka Chaka, is at the centre of alleged tax evasion spanning 15 years. He appeared in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting at the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court yesterday – Monday, 30 March.
While the specific total monetary value of the alleged tax evasion has not been disclosed by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa, the charges relating to the alleged tax evasion reportedly amount to 102 criminal counts.
The state alleges that Dr Mhinga failed to fulfil his legal duty to submit income tax and Value-Added Tax (VAT) returns to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) over an extended period.
Magaboke Mohlatlole, spokesperson for the NPA Gauteng Division, Johannesburg, said the respected medical practitioner allegedly failed to file income tax returns between 2007 and 2022 and VAT returns from 2009 to 2023, despite being legally required to do so.
“It is further alleged that this conduct was unlawful and, in certain instances, wilful, resulting in multiple charges under South African tax legislation,” said Mohlatlole. He said during the court proceedings yesterday, Mhinga’s legal team indicated its intention to submit representations to the state regarding the reported tax evasion.
“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the rule of law by ensuring accountability and promoting compliance with tax legislation,” said Mohlatlole, adding that the matter has been postponed to 6 May for the outcome of these representations.
