Johannesburg - Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane is facing a storm of controversy as the Democratic Alliance (DA) has laid criminal charges against her, accusing her of misleading Parliament. This dramatic move coincides with the rejection of the higher education department's budget by a majority of political parties in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
The DA's decision to pursue criminal charges follows President Cyril Ramaphosa's dismissal of DA deputy minister, Andrew Whitfield, a move the DA claims was politically motivated. In retaliation, the DA withdrew from the National Dialogue and is now directly challenging Minister Nkabane.
According to reports, the DA lodged the criminal complaint at the Cape Town Central Police Station on Tuesday morning, just ahead of Nkabane’s budget debate in the NCOP. The charges stem from allegations of corruption and cronyism within the higher education department.
Budget Rejected Amidst Corruption Allegations
The NCOP's rejection of the higher education budget adds further pressure on Minister Nkabane. While she avoided mentioning the controversy surrounding Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in her address, numerous parties seized the opportunity to demand her dismissal.
Critics argue that the department, under Nkabane's leadership, has failed students, and that the National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has become a breeding ground for corruption. MP Jeanne Adriaanse of the DA stated that corruption is rampant within the department, highlighting a pattern of reckless governance.
Opposition Parties Unite Against Nkabane
Even the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), through Laeticia Allies, voiced their agreement that Nkabane has failed the department, pointing to examples of political patronage where institutions meant to empower youth and workers are instead used as employment opportunities for ANC cadres. The MK Party has also rejected the budget, and the Freedom Front Plus is calling on the president to take action against the minister.
The situation continues to develop, and all eyes are now on President Ramaphosa to see how he will respond to these serious allegations and the mounting pressure on Minister Nkabane.