Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni Under Investigation for Tender Fraud
In a dramatic turn of events, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni could soon face serious legal repercussions as the Hawks are reportedly investigating a fraud and corruption case opened against her in 2021. The allegations trace back to 2009, during her tenure as a municipal manager, when she allegedly irregularly awarded a tender worth R584,000 to Makwande Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors.
The controversy doesn’t end there—court documents reveal that Makwande wasn’t even among the five companies that initially bid for the tender. Despite this, Ntshavheni reportedly awarded the contract to Makwande on 7 July 2009. Within just two days, the contract’s scope expanded, eventually resulting in costs ballooning to over R2.3 million.
Makwande later claimed in a letter of demand that it had only received R268,681 of the promised payment. In 2020, the Polokwane High Court ruled the tender was irregularly awarded and ordered it to be set aside, urging the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to investigate corruption charges further.
Legal Proceedings and Drafted Charges
By 2021, the NPA in Limpopo began drafting a charge sheet against Ntshavheni, reportedly accusing her of one count of fraud and corruption amounting to R2.5 million. The investigation includes allegations that she failed to prevent wasteful expenditure during her time in office.
Corruption in High Places: A Growing Trend?
Ntshavheni is not the only high-profile figure to face such accusations. Several other political figures have recently made headlines for alleged fraud and corruption, including:
- Zizi Kodwa: Former Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, arrested alongside former EOH executive Jehan MacKay on similar charges.
- Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula: The former Speaker of Parliament faced charges for allegedly receiving kickbacks during her tenure as Minister of Defence.
- Pule Mabe: The African National Congress’s former spokesperson, along with his wife, was charged in connection with the irregular awarding of a tender.
These cases highlight growing concerns about governance and accountability within South Africa’s political landscape.
Ntshavheni’s Response to Controversies
The Minister has not remained silent amid these allegations. In a separate incident, she addressed backlash over her “smoke out” remarks regarding illegal miners (zama zamas) operating in Stilfontein Mine. Critics argued her comments were inflammatory, but Ntshavheni clarified on social media, stating that the term was a metaphor for forcing individuals out of hiding.
She even went as far as posting a screenshot from ChatGPT to explain the phrase’s meaning. However, this explanation sparked further debate among South Africans, with many questioning her communication approach.
Public Reaction and What’s Next
As the investigation unfolds, public opinion remains divided. Some South Africans view this as an opportunity to strengthen accountability in government, while others call for restraint until due process takes its course.
For now, all eyes are on the Hawks and the NPA as they determine whether Ntshavheni will be formally charged.
