The Democratic Alliance will on Tuesday picket outside the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein when former Free State Premier Ace Magashule appears in court for his corruption case relating to a R255-million asbestos tender.

Magashule and his 15 co-accused – which include former Mangaung mayor Olly Mlamleli, businessman Edwin Sodi and former human settlements department head Nthimotse Mokhesi – face 74 charges of fraud, corruption, theft and money laundering.

The trial began on August 11.

“The DA wants to see a speedy trial and want the political architects of this asbestos tender case, who caused hardship for the 32 500 families who still live under life-threatening asbestos roofs in the province, to be held accountable,” the party said.