Minister Tolashe denies wrongdoing, blames former chief of staff for 'irregular' appointment

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has dismissed the controversy surrounding questionable appointments within her department, claiming it's an attempt to damage her reputation and destabilise the department.

Reports detailing what appeared to be irregular appointments in Tolashe’s personal office were recently exposed by the Daily Maverick.

Appearing before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Thursday, the minister addressed the reports, stating they contained "false and in some instances unlawful information".

Tolashe did, however, admit to Parliament that the appointment of a 22-year-old personal assistant, Lesedi Mabiletja, was "not above board". She attributed the blame to the former chief of staff for facilitating the appointment.

She stated that Mabiletja's appointment was made under "dubious circumstances".

A preliminary investigation revealed misrepresentation and dishonesty on her CV and serious procedural irregularities in her appointment.

Tolashe further confirmed that her former Chief of Staff, Zanele Simmons, s now challenging her dismissal over the debacle.

The minister also addressed the appointment of her special advisor, Ngwako Kgatla, following accusations that he has been "double-dipping" and earning two government salaries.

The department has no authority to institute disciplinary proceedings against Kgatla as he’s not an employee under the Public Service Act.

Tolashe said the matter has now been referred to the Department of Women and Youth, where the misconduct is alleged to have taken place.