SA Communist Party general secretary Blade Nzimande yesterday denied receiving a R500000 cash donation for the party, which has reportedly gone missing.

SA Communist Party general secretary Blade Nzimande yesterday denied receiving a R500000 cash donation for the party, which has reportedly gone missing.

"I have never received the alleged R500000 from any person. As the SACP has said, this is part of a concerted smear campaign primarily directed at discrediting the image and reputation of the SACP and tarnishing my image and integrity," Nzimande said in a statement.

The donation was allegedly made by businessman Charles Modise in 2002.

Earlier this month, Cosatu president Willie Madisha confirmed receiving the funds and was quoted as saying: "I took the money to the person I was supposed to deliver it to."

Nzimande said the allegation that he had received the funds was "laughable and nonsensical". Yesterday the SACP said it was anxious to meet Madisha to get a "first-hand account" of the matter. - Sapa