Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests has recommended that Deputy President Paul Mashatile be formally reprimanded and fined R10,000 for failing to declare a diamond gifted to his wife by Louis Liebenberg, a businessman accused of running a fraudulent diamond investment scheme.
The committee found that Mashatile violated ethics rules by not disclosing the gift in the confidential section of Parliament’s register, as required by the code of conduct for public officials. The diamond was reportedly given to Mashatile’s wife, Dr. Humile Mashatile, in October 2023.
Diamond Linked to Fraud Case
The gift came to light during court proceedings against Liebenberg, who faces over 40 charges, including fraud and corruption, related to an alleged diamond Ponzi scheme. A 22-page affidavit submitted by Liebenberg’s former head of security claimed that the businessman had provided gifts and financial favors to several politicians, including Mashatile’s family.
The deputy president has denied any wrongdoing, stating that he intended to declare the diamond once it was valued. However, the stone is currently held by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) as evidence in Liebenberg’s trial.
Mounting Controversies
The ethics breach adds to growing scrutiny around Mashatile’s financial disclosures. Recently, he belatedly declared three properties—including a luxury home in Constantia, Cape Town—after initially denying residing there. He attributed the ownership to his son-in-law, whom he described as a successful businessman.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about possible improper benefits linked to Mashatile’s political position. The Hawks are reportedly investigating whether his family’s assets were funded through state tenders—a sensitive issue given South Africa’s history of state capture.
Public Protector Probe Pending
The matter was referred to the Public Protector earlier this year by civil society group Accountability Now, but no findings have been released yet. Meanwhile, opposition parties and transparency advocates are demanding greater accountability, questioning whether Mashatile’s associates are leveraging his political influence for personal gain.
Broader Implications for Governance
The controversy comes amid President Cyril Ramaphosa’s pledge to restore clean governance after the state capture era. With Mashatile being the second-highest-ranking official, the case raises questions about the administration’s commitment to ethical leadership.
Political analyst Khaya Sithole noted, “The issue isn’t about black wealth but about whether public office is being exploited for private benefit. South Africans are rightfully wary of repeating past mistakes.”
As pressure mounts, calls are growing for Mashatile—and the presidency—to address these allegations transparently. For now, the Ethics Committee’s recommendation awaits parliamentary approval, but the fallout may extend far beyond a reprimand and a fine.