Thembi Simelane
By Thabo Mosia
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Thembi Simelane to step down due to her alleged involvement in the controversial VBS Mutual Bank scandal. The DA, led by spokesperson Glynnis Breytenbach, emphasised that Simelane’s position as the head of the justice system places her in a conflict of interest while she remains under investigation. According to the DA, her continued role undermines the credibility and independence of South Africa’s legal institutions, particularly as the investigation into the VBS saga unfolds.
Simelane, who allegedly received a loan of R575,600 from Gundo Wealth Solutions during her tenure as Polokwane mayor, has been accused of benefiting from a corrupt scheme involving the unlawful channelling of municipal funds into VBS Bank. This has raised concerns about the Minister’s integrity, as she oversees entities such as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), which is responsible for pursuing criminal charges in the broader VBS scandal .
President Cyril Ramaphosa has requested a formal briefing from Minister Simelane regarding the allegations. He has stopped short of demanding her resignation, opting instead to await the outcome of a thorough investigation. However, Ramaphosa has expressed his concern over the integrity of the justice system under Simelane’s leadership, given the serious nature of the accusations .
The African National Congress (ANC) has thus far backed Simelane, emphasising the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” Despite calls from opposition parties, including the DA and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), for her immediate removal, the ANC argues that due process must be followed before any drastic actions are taken .
The EFF, in contrast, has been particularly vocal in its condemnation of Simelane’s actions, calling for her immediate resignation. Julius Malema, the EFF’s leader, highlighted the gravity of the corruption allegations, framing them as not only unethical but criminal. According to the EFF, Simelane played a pivotal role in enabling illegal deposits into VBS Bank while she was mayor, directly benefiting from kickbacks linked to these illicit transactions .
In response, Minister Simelane addressed Parliament, denying any wrongdoing and affirming that the loan she received had been fully repaid. She maintained that she made all necessary declarations during her time as mayor and remains committed to cooperating with the investigation. Simelane’s defence, however, has done little to quell the mounting political pressure from opposition parties, civil society, and segments of the public .
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