Minister in the Presidency “caught in a serious fraud”
The Hawks have concluded their investigation into Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, following allegations of fraud and corruption tied to a R2.5 million municipal tender.
Ntshavheni, a close confidant of President Cyril Ramaphosa, has been under scrutiny for her alleged involvement in irregularities during her tenure as a municipal manager.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that the tender in question pertains to a project awarded during Ntshavheni’s time as municipal manager at one of the municipalities in Limpopo. The tender allegedly involved irregular procurement processes, with accusations of favoritism and inflated costs.
“The investigation is complete, and the docket has been forwarded to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for a decision on whether to prosecute,” said Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo.
“We have ensured that all evidence gathered is comprehensive and in line with our mandate to fight corruption at all levels of government,” Mbambo said.
Ntshavheni has consistently denied any wrongdoing, labelling the allegations as politically motivated.
“These claims are baseless and a deliberate attempt to tarnish my reputation. I have always upheld the principles of good governance and transparency,” she stated in a prior interview.
The case has sparked significant political interest, given Ntshavheni’s prominent role within the Presidency and her close association with Ramaphosa. Opposition parties have called for transparency and swift action, urging the President to demonstrate his commitment to rooting out corruption within government ranks.
“President Ramaphosa must lead by example and ensure that no individual, regardless of their position, is above the law. The integrity of our institutions is at stake,” said DA spokesperson Solly Malatsi.
While the NPA has yet to announce its decision, legal experts warn that a potential prosecution could have far-reaching implications for Ntshavheni’s political career and the Presidency’s image.
The investigation marks a critical moment for South Africa’s fight against corruption, as public trust in the government remains fragile. All eyes now turn to the NPA, whose next move will determine whether the allegations against Ntshavheni proceed to court or are dismissed.
President Ramaphosa’s office has declined to comment, stating that the matter remains under the jurisdiction of law enforcement authorities.