JOHANNESBURG - Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane is facing a criminal complaint filed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) over alleged misleading statements to Parliament regarding appointments to the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) boards. The DA accuses Nkabane of dishonesty concerning the independence of the board responsible for SETA selections.
According to the DA, Minister Nkabane claimed an independent panel of experts oversaw the SETA board appointments. However, DA Federal Chairperson Helen Zille revealed that six of these so-called independent experts were actually employees within Nkabane's own department. Furthermore, Zille alleged that several appointees were aligned with the ANC.
“The Minister misled and lied to Parliament,” Zille stated outside a Cape Town police station, emphasizing the seriousness of the accusations. While Nkabane has since withdrawn the selection list, the DA is pursuing the matter further.
Zille also criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa, claiming double standards within his government. She contrasted the swift dismissal of DA's Andrew Whitfield for an unauthorized trip with the lack of action against alleged corruption involving Minister Nkabane. "Ramaphosa refuses to act against corruption," she added.
The controversy extends beyond procedural missteps, highlighting a broader crisis in governance. Ravi Pillay argues that the SETA board fiasco reflects a systemic issue where public boards, wielding significant power over budgets and policies, operate with opacity and political influence. He emphasizes the need for ethical oversight and accountability in public appointments.
Silence and Complicity?
Pillay questions the lack of widespread outrage from business, universities, and civil society. He asserts that the silence suggests a strategic and complicit acceptance of ethical failures within corridors of power. The controversy underscores the urgent need for transparency, ethical leadership, and robust oversight in public governance to maintain public trust and ensure effective service delivery.
eNCA has reached out to Minister Nkabane for comment, but a response was not received before publication. Any statement from the minister will be added as soon as it becomes available.
The Bigger Picture
- DA accuses Minister of misleading Parliament.
- Controversy highlights potential governance issues.
- Calls for greater transparency and accountability.