Key Takeaways:
- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have filed a complaint of perjury against Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, with the Public Protector and the South African Police Service (SAPS)
- The complaint alleges that Manamela gave conflicting submissions in court papers and in Parliament regarding meetings with the National Skills Authority (NSA) before placing three Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) under administration
- The EFF warns that Manamela risks facing removal from Cabinet if found guilty of perjury, similar to his predecessor, Nobuhle Nkabane
- The party claims that Manamela’s conflicting accounts constitute a "material lie" aimed at influencing the outcome of a court challenge by the Local Government SETA
Introduction to the Allegations
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have laid a complaint of perjury with the Public Protector and the South African Police Service (SAPS) against the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela. This complaint stems from the party’s allegations that Minister Manamela provided conflicting submissions in court papers and in Parliament regarding whether he held meetings with the National Skills Authority (NSA) before placing three Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) under administration. The EFF is warning that if found guilty, Manamela risks facing a fate similar to that of his predecessor, Nobuhle Nkabane, who was removed from Cabinet after she misled Parliament over SETA board appointments.
The Core of the Complaint
EFF Member of Parliament (MP), Sihle Lonzi, explained the core of the complaint, highlighting the discrepancies in Minister Manamela’s accounts. According to Lonzi, when Minister Manamela released a gazette in August placing three SETAs under administration, he was legally required to consult with the National Skills Authority and the SETAs in question. However, when Manamela appeared before Parliament, he claimed that he did not consult with the NSA and SETAs. This statement was contradicted by an answering affidavit filed by Manamela against the Local Government SETA, which had taken him to court. In the affidavit, the Minister allegedly claimed that he personally consulted with the NSA on the 7th of August. This contradiction has raised serious concerns about the veracity of Manamela’s statements.
The Contradiction and Its Implications
Lonzi highlighted the contradiction, stating that Manamela’s accounts are "mutually exclusive." The EFF MP asserted that Manamela told a "material lie" to the court in an attempt to influence the outcome of the Local Government SETA’s court challenge. This allegation is serious, as it suggests that the Minister may have intentionally provided false information to the court. The implications of this are significant, as it could undermine the integrity of the judicial process and damage the public’s trust in government institutions. The EFF is seeking action against Manamela, citing the precedent set by the removal of his predecessor, Nobuhle Nkabane, who was found to have misled Parliament over SETA board appointments.
The Potential Consequences for Minister Manamela
The EFF’s complaint has significant implications for Minister Manamela’s future in Cabinet. If found guilty of perjury, Manamela could face removal from his position, similar to his predecessor. The party is warning that Manamela’s actions may have consequences, and that he should be held accountable for any wrongdoing. The Public Protector and the SAPS will investigate the complaint, and their findings will determine the next course of action. The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched, as it will have significant implications for the government and the country as a whole.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the Economic Freedom Fighters have filed a serious complaint against Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, alleging that he provided conflicting submissions in court papers and in Parliament. The party claims that Manamela’s accounts constitute a "material lie" aimed at influencing the outcome of a court challenge. The complaint has significant implications for Manamela’s future in Cabinet and highlights the importance of accountability in government. The Public Protector and the SAPS will investigate the complaint, and their findings will determine the next course of action. As the investigation unfolds, it is essential to remember the importance of transparency and accountability in government, and to ensure that those in positions of power are held to the highest standards of integrity.
