Fikile Mbalula defends Higher Education Minister against DA's allegations

 ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula insists that Higher Education Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane did not lie and acted within her rights when appointing members to SETA boards.

Mbalula was reacting to the Democratic Alliance's (DA) bringing criminal charges against Nkabane.

In dismissing the action he labelled it “opportunistic,” and insisted that she acted within her legal rights.

While addressing the media in Johannesburg on Monday, Mbalula said the DA's move lacked legal grounding and amounted to “performative politics.”

“The minister — did she lie? We say no, she didn’t lie. She went to Parliament and gave the information,” said Mbalula.

He maintained that in terms of the Skills Development Act of 1998, the minister was legally empowered to appoint members, including chairpersons, to the accounting authority of the SETAs.

“The law is very clear on this matter. If others say ministers have not admitted errors or apologised -  that person is a liar,” Mbalula added.

The DA laid criminal charges against Nkabane last week, alleging that she lied to Parliament about the appointment of ANC-linked individuals to SETA boards.

DA MP Karabo Khakhau claimed that Nkabane misled Parliament by stating an “independent” panel had made the appointments. Khakhau said this was false, citing a chairperson who confirmed he was not involved in the process.

“She falsely claimed an independent panel made the appointments — including a chair who confirmed he wasn’t involved,” said Khakhau.

The DA has vowed to vote against the department’s budget and other budgets “led by corrupt ANC ministers.”

Mbalula accused the DA of attempting to “collapse the government.”

Meanwhile, the Hawks have confirmed they are investigating the charges against Nkabane following the DA's complaint.

DAILY NEWS