The former Minister of Labor, Helena Taipo, began her trial this Tuesday at the Katembe Judicial Court, accused of participating in acts of corruption through the receipt of bribe monies.  

The Public Ministry says there is sufficient evidence to justify the conviction of Helena Taipo, sometimes referred to as the "Iron Lady" when she led the Ministry, as well as 11 other defendants involved in the same case.

Helena Taipo and other defendants are accused of embezzling 113 million meticais from the National Social Security Institute that would have been from the contributions of Mozambican miners in South Africa.

The MP said there is material evidence that the former minister is at fault in the case and should be convicted and compensate the state, for the amount embezzled, plus interest.

For its part, Taipo's defense claims that the accusation is based on superficial aspects and, therefore, there is nothing concrete that justifies a conviction, and therefore, asks for an acquittal.

The former minister will be heard, in a discussion and trial hearing, next week.