By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA want President Cyril Ramaphosa to take action against Minister in the presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
This follows an investigation by the Directorate of Priority Crimes, commonly known as the Hawks, regarding her conduct as the municipal manager of Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality.
The allegations relate to a 2009 municipal tender worth R2.5 million, which was found to have been irregularly awarded to an accounting firm in July 2009.
In 2020, the judge presiding over the case referred the matter to the Hawks and NPA for further investigation. On Friday, the Hawks confirmed that its investigations into the allegations have been completed.
As such, the docket has now been handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) director of public prosecutions (DPP) for a prosecution decision.
Following the news that the probe has been completed, several opposition parties have come forward calling for the removal of Ntshavheni.
In a statement, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for her immediate removal from the Cabinet.
The party noted that she cannot serve as Minister in this portfolio (or any), while under such a serious criminal investigation.
“We call on her to step down immediately. Failing which, the President must relieve her of her duties.”
DA Spokesperson on State Security, Dianne Kohler Barnard MP, added that this is yet another example of an ANC Minister in Ramaphosa’s Cabinet who he needs to remove for allegations of corruption.
“Either he was not aware of these allegations, which would be an indictment in itself, or he was aware, which would raise damning questions as to his duty of care as head of the executive”
Barnard says members of the Executive must be fit for purpose, and beyond reproach.
At the same time, ActionSA calls on Ramaphosa to suspend Ntshavheni, following the Hawks’ confirmation that they have referred a docket to the NPA.
The party’s Parliamentary leader, Athol Trollip says Ntshavheni has now joined a growing and worrying list of ministers under criminal investigation for fraud and corruption.