DA lodges complaints against Mashatile and Mbalula with Public Protector
29 June 2023
Today I officially lodged complaints with the Office of the Public Protector in relation to the alleged corrupt activities involving Deputy President Paul Mashatile and ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula.
The DA is deeply concerned about the emergence of State Capture 2.0, where corrupt tender flows are being utilized to finance extravagant lifestyles for high-ranking African National Congress (ANC) officials.
Recent revelations have exposed troubling connections between Deputy President Paul Mashatile and individuals who have benefited from state contracts. Moreover, allegations have surfaced regarding a loan received by Fikile Mbalula, the ANC Secretary General, which is suspected to originate from National Lotteries Commission funds.
We believe that these allegations raise serious concerns about potential breaches of the Executive Members Ethics Act, the Constitution, and other relevant legislative provisions. Therefore, we request that a thorough investigation be conducted to determine the veracity of these claims and ascertain whether any impropriety or prejudice to state affairs or public administration has occurred.
The scope of the investigation should encompass various aspects, including but not limited to:
Whether Fikile Mbalula received a loan from Upbrand, and if these funds originated from the National Lotteries Commission;
The nature and details of contractual agreements involving individuals and companies allegedly involved in corruption related to the National Lotteries Commission;
Whether Fikile Mbalula, Upbrand, the National Lotteries Commission, or any other parties involved in the deal conducted themselves in a manner that is improper or resulted in impropriety or prejudice to state affairs or public administration;
Whether Fikile Mbalula, Upbrand, the National Lotteries Commission, or any other parties involved in the deal engaged in potentially corrupt activities under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act; and
Whether Fikile Mbalula may have breached any provisions of the Executive Ethics Code in relation to this deal, including any potential conflict of interest or improper enrichment.
Similarly, the investigation into Deputy President Paul Mashatile should explore the allegations of impropriety surrounding his lifestyle, connections with tenderpreneurs, and the use of properties linked to individuals facing corruption charges. This inquiry should examine whether Mr. Mashatile violated the Executive Members Ethics Act, provisions of the Constitution, or any other relevant legal framework.
We firmly believe that a comprehensive investigation by the Office of the Public Protector is essential to uphold the integrity of our democracy and ensure transparency and accountability in public affairs. The DA remains committed to fighting against corruption and safeguarding the interests of the South African people.
Issued by Solly Malatsi, DA National Spokesperson, 29 June 2023
