The Democratic Alliance (DA) has formally referred Higher Education Minister Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane to Parliament’s ethics committee, accusing her of lying about the independence of a panel tasked with selecting board chairs for Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
The controversy stems from Nkabane’s recent release of the panel members’ names after missing previous deadlines set by Parliament. The initial appointments faced backlash when it was revealed that politically connected individuals, including the son of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe, were selected. Following public outcry, the minister reversed the appointments.
Allegations of Misleading Parliament
DA MP Karabo Khakhau, who serves on the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, alleges that Nkabane misled Parliament by claiming the selection panel was “independent and beyond reproach.” However, the released names suggest strong ANC affiliations among panel members, raising concerns about political interference.
Khakhau highlighted several panelists with direct ties to the ANC and the minister’s office, including:
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Advocate Terry Motau, reportedly the panel’s chair, who allegedly did not attend meetings and holds a R2 million tender with the City of Johannesburg linked to an ANC official.
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Asisipho Solani, a former ANC Youth League leader and current adviser in the Higher Education Department.
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Nelisiwe Semane, the minister’s chief of staff.
- Mabuza Ngubane
- Rhulani Ngwenya
Calls for Accountability
The DA has demanded:
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Full transparency, including minutes of panel meetings and the report submitted to the National Skills Authority.
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Legal action against officials who allegedly lied to Parliament, which is a criminal offense.
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A parliamentary summons for panel members to explain how 20 candidates were selected from 573 applicants.
Khakhau emphasized that SETAs manage R19 billion in public funds annually, making impartial leadership crucial for skills development and youth employment.
Minister’s Defense
Nkabane previously defended the panel’s integrity, stating members were qualified and free from corruption allegations. However, the DA insists the evidence points to political favoritism, undermining public trust.
Next Steps
The ethics committee will now assess whether Nkabane violated Parliament’s code of conduct. If found guilty, her fitness for office could be questioned.
This case highlights ongoing tensions in South Africa’s coalition governance era, with opposition parties vowing stricter oversight of executive conduct.