Tolashe Faces Parliament Probe Over ‘Misleading’ Claims, Car Donation Scandal and Power Grab Allegations

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is expected to appear before Parliament’s portfolio committee following growing criticism over her recent conduct.

Several political parties argue that both her personal and professional decisions have cast a shadow over her office, prompting calls for accountability at the highest level.

Opposition Parties Raise Alarm Over Vehicles and Leadership Role

ActionSA has accused Tolashe of misleading Parliament regarding the donation of two vehicles. The party claims the cars, reportedly intended for the ANC Women’s League, were instead allocated to her children.

At the same time, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has questioned her conduct in managing leadership matters within her department. The party argues she must clarify why she appears to be taking over responsibilities that fall under the president, particularly concerning the director-general position.

This is not the first time Tolashe has faced scrutiny. Previously, Parliament’s portfolio committee called on her to account for questionable appointments within her office, as well as inconsistencies linked to the employment contract of former director-general Peter Netshipale.

Fresh Complaints Filed Against Tolashe

Although Netshipale’s contract ended last month, DA MP Nazley Sharif has taken the matter further by lodging a complaint with the Public Protector. She raised concerns about how Tolashe handled the process, alleging it was done without the president’s approval.

Meanwhile, ActionSA MP Dereleen James confirmed she is also submitting complaints to both the president and the Public Protector. These relate to what she describes as potential breaches of the Executive Members’ Ethics Code.

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“We see the pattern where you have ministers coming to Parliament and blatantly lying. The entire Department of Social Development is aware of what’s happening. Those fraudulent CVs, those irregular appointments…but people fear to speak out.”

Tolashe’s office has not yet issued a response to requests for comment.