Senior official in Limpopo premier’s office accused of misrepresenting qualifications granted R25 000 bail

A senior official in the Limpopo premier’s office arrested for misrepresenting academic qualifications was on Tuesday granted R25 000 bail in the Polokwane magistrate court.

Mbobole Michael Maseko (59) was arrested on Thursday last week and immediately taken to court where he was remanded in custody.

It is alleged that Maseko misrepresented his qualifications when applying for an advertised post of senior manager in charge of labour relations in the office of the premier in 2012.

In subsequent interviews, Moipone Mathole was the preferred candidate, but the post was re-advertised and she was not shortlisted. Maseko was later appointed in the position.

It is alleged that Maseko misrepresented his qualification by fraudulently claiming that he obtained a diploma, and that his appointment prejudiced the premier’s office which suffered a loss of R11 million.

In court, he was ordered to surrender his passport to the investigating officer before being released on bail. He must also inform the investigating officer whenever he leaves the province.

He will appear in court again on 29 April 2024 for a date in the Polokwane Specialised Commercial Crime Court.