DA reiterates call for Justice Minister Thembi Simelane to step aside in light of new revelations

30 September 2024

The Democratic Alliance (DA) reiterates its call for Minister Thembi Simelane to step aside from her role as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development following new and disturbing revelations regarding her alleged involvement in a questionable loan transaction during her tenure as Mayor of Polokwane.

The recent disclosure of glaring inconsistencies in the so-called "loan agreement" with VBS corruption-accused Ralliom Razwinane only deepens the conflict of interest facing the Minister. The discrepancies in the document - such as contradicting payment dates and the strong suggestion that it was backdated - undermine any claim to transparency and raise serious questions about the Minister’s integrity.

In light of these revelations, we believe that Minister Simelane should step aside of her own volition. Continuing in her role without addressing these serious concerns casts a shadow over her capacity to uphold the justice system she is meant to serve.

We urge the President to stop stalling and take decisive action. While we respect the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)’s mandate to investigate and decide on any potential prosecution, the President has a duty to act now in the face of what is clearly a blinding conflict of interest.

Minister Simelane must either be suspended or removed from her post to protect the integrity of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development. The South African public deserves leadership that is beyond reproach, particularly in matters as critical as justice and constitutional development.

The DA will continue to monitor the situation closely and demand accountability at every level of government.

Issued by Glynnis Breytenbach, DA Spokesperson on Justice and Constitutional Development, 30 September 2024