Calls for Ntshavheni's removal after corruption and fraud probe

The Hawks have reportedly completed its investigation into the fraud and corruption allegations against Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni which was allegedly committed during her tenure as Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality Manager.

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. At the time, Ntshaveni was the only municipal official authorised to award such contracts.

In 2020, the judge presiding over the case referred the matter to the Hawks and NPA for further investigation. On Friday, the Hawks reportedly confirmed to News24 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 parties have come forward calling for the removal of Ntshavheni.

In a statement, the Democratic Alliance 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.”

In the statement, DA Spokesperson on State Security, Dianne Kohler Barnard MP, added that this is yet another example of an ANC Minister in President Cyril 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 President Ramaphosa to suspend Minister 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.

” – highlighting a troubling pattern of the President’s failure to exercise due diligence when appointing individuals to critical positions within his government.”

ActionSA made a similar appeal to the President last year regarding Minister Simelane, following allegations that she had solicited a dodgy “loan” from a VBS-linked investment broker during her tenure as Mayor of Polokwane.