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Ernest Khosa Steps Aside as NSFAS Board Chair Amid Audio Leak
Ernest Khosa takes leave of absence as NSFAS board chairperson in the wake of an audio leak, announced on Wednesday amid allegations revealed in recordings distributed by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa). To address the allegations against him, the NSFAS board will appoint an independent legal firm to investigate their integrity, according to a statement. Last week, leaked recordings by Outa claimed that service providers awarded tenders by NSFAS paid kickbacks to Khosa, higher education minister Blade Nzimande, and the South African Communist Party, as reported by TimesLIVE. Khosa, who denies the allegations, stresses that his voluntary leave is not an admission of guilt, as reiterated to the board. The board describes Khosa’s decision as “honourable, brave and responsible.”
Also read: Minister Denies Allegations in OUTA Report
An upcoming legal firm, yet to be announced by the board, will examine the allegations, with its findings expected within 30 days of appointment. This move comes as the labour court declared the recent termination of CEO Andile Nongogo’s contract as lawful and valid, given his implication in irregular conduct related to the appointment of direct payment service providers. The board plans to appoint a new CEO to enhance supply chain management systems and continue the legal process toward terminating contracts with direct payment service providers.
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