Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)
By Thabo Mosia
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have urged immediate action against Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, following the Hawks’ conclusion of an investigation into allegations of fraud and corruption during her tenure as municipal manager of Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality in 2009.
Hawks’ Investigation Concludes
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, has finalised its probe into Minister Ntshavheni concerning the alleged irregular awarding of a R2.5 million tender to Makwande Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors in July 2009. At that time, Ntshavheni served as the municipal manager. The investigation, initiated after charges were laid in 2021, has been referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for a decision on prosecution.
EFF’s Response
In a statement dated 20 January 2025, EFF National Spokesperson Leigh-Ann Mathys criticised the protracted duration of the investigation, highlighting it as indicative of the sluggish pace at which investigative bodies address corruption involving high-ranking officials. The EFF alleges that Minister Ntshavheni has evaded accountability due to her close association with President Cyril Ramaphosa, describing her as one of his “closest confidants” and a central figure in his 2017 campaign for ANC leadership.
Historical Allegations
This is not the first time Minister Ntshavheni has faced scrutiny. In 2022, the State Capture Commission Report implicated her in the suspension of three executives at Denel during her tenure as a board member, actions that allegedly facilitated Gupta-linked corruption at the state-owned arms manufacturer. The Commission suggested that she was “probably culpable” in these activities. 
Furthermore, during her time as Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, reports surfaced of excessive expenditure amounting to R15 million on accommodation and travel between 2019 and 2022, a period marked by global lockdowns. The EFF condemned this spending as lavish and unpunished due to her political connections. 
Minister’s Current Role
Currently, as Minister in the Presidency, Ntshavheni oversees government communications and the State Security Agency (SSA). The EFF expresses concern over her position, citing her access to SSA’s operational funds, which have previously been misused for internal political campaigns within the African National Congress (ANC).
EFF’s Demands
The EFF calls for Minister Ntshavheni to be held accountable for her alleged involvement in past corrupt activities, asserting that her continued role in government contradicts the administration’s claims of renewal and anti-corruption efforts. They urge law enforcement agencies to act on the findings of the Hawks’ investigation and for the NPA to proceed with prosecution if warranted.
Minister’s Response
Minister Ntshavheni has previously denied any wrongdoing. In response to the State Capture Commission’s findings, she stated her willingness to cooperate with any investigations, emphasizing that she has “never been party to any alleged acts of fraud, corruption, maladministration and state capture.” 
Public and Political Reactions
The African National Congress has yet to respond to the EFF’s recent demands. Historically, the ANC has faced criticism for its handling of members implicated in corruption, with calls for stricter adherence to its step-aside policy.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition 087🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Building ‘The Ngwathe We Want’:
Dr Mothamaha Drives Cost-Effective
Solutions with New Fleet Acquisitions”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube