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DA Calls for Minister Ntshavheni’s Dismissal as Corruption Probe Expands

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Picture: News24/X

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has intensified its calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to remove Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, following reports that a corruption investigation against her has significantly expanded.

The Hawks initially launched an inquiry into allegations of R2 million in tender fraud dating back to Ntshavheni’s tenure as municipal manager at the Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality in Limpopo. However, recent reports indicate that the probe has now escalated into an R80 million corruption scandal, raising serious governance concerns at the highest levels of government.

DA MP and State Security spokesperson, Dianne Kohler Barnard, has questioned why Ntshavheni still holds a Cabinet position, particularly given her unrestricted access to classified state intelligence.

“This person has full access to the most secret dealings of the State Security Agency. So really, one can’t be shocked at our call to remove her,” Kohler Barnard said in an SAfm Current Affairs interview.

She further pointed out that the investigation has expanded dramatically, from an initial R2.5 million to R80 million in alleged fraud and corruption.

“We wrote to the president over a month ago demanding her removal, yet all we received was confirmation of receipt,” she added.

Kohler Barnard suggested that Ramaphosa’s close relationship with Ntshavheni makes it unlikely that he will take decisive action.

“He’s known to be very close with the minister, who serves as Cabinet’s spokesperson. She has access to every piece of classified information, and yet she remains under major investigation – it’s a huge cause for concern,” she stated.

The DA’s demand places further pressure on Ramaphosa, who has been widely criticized for his cautious approach to corruption allegations within his administration.

With the 2024 general elections approaching, opposition parties are expected to use this case as further evidence of the ANC’s failure to tackle corruption, particularly at the highest levels of government.

While the Hawks’ investigation continues, Ntshavheni has yet to comment on the latest developments, and the Presidency has remained silent on whether Ramaphosa will take action or allow due process to unfold.

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