Parliament Has Final Say On Ethics Findings Against Former Minister Nobuhle Nkabane

The co-chair of Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests has clarified that lawmakers are not obliged to enforce its findings against former Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane.

Speaking on the matter, committee co-chair Hendrik Brits said it remained within the authority of both houses of Parliament to either adopt or disregard the recommendations made following the investigation.

Nkabane was found to have breached the code of ethical conduct after misleading Parliament about the process she followed in appointing African National Congress (ANC) cadres and associates as chairpersons of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), including the son of Gwede Mantashe.

Ethics Committee Findings On Nkabane’s SETA Appointments

The findings stem from a formal complaint submitted by Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Karabo Khakhau.

During her appearance before the parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, Nkabane faced criticism from MPs, who accused her of displaying arrogance.

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When questioned about the appointment process, she stated that a panel had advised her. However, it later emerged that the panel did not exist.

This revelation followed statements from all individuals who were allegedly part of the panel, each distancing themselves from any involvement.

Parliament To Decide On Reprimand And Apology

The ethics committee’s investigation concluded that Nkabane failed to exercise appropriate oversight in making the appointments.

As a result, it recommended that the National Assembly formally reprimand her and require an apology for failing to exercise due care in appointing SETA board chairpersons.

Despite these recommendations, Brits emphasised that they are not binding, leaving the final decision to Parliament.