Despite Corruption Allegations in NSFAS Nzimande Says He Won’t Resign. Last week, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) exposed a series of recordings implicating corruption within the Higher Education Department and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The allegations specifically involve Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande, South African Communist Party, and NSFAS board chair Ernest Khosa, accusing them of receiving substantial bribes from NSFAS service providers.
“I’M NOT GOING TO RESIGN,” Asserts Nzimande
Despite the mounting pressure and calls for his resignation, Minister Blade Nzimande remains resolute in his position. Dismissing the corruption allegations against him, Nzimande states emphatically, “I’m not going to resign…why should I resign? Minister’s names are dropped everywhere…almost all the time.”
Nzimande Plan
In response to the allegations, Minister Nzimande expresses his intention to meet with the President to present his side of the story. This move suggests his commitment to addressing the accusations and clarifying his position.
Political Backlash and Calls for Action
As calls for Minister Nzimande dismissal gain momentum, the Democratic Alliance urges President Cyril Ramaphosa to take decisive action. Simultaneously, they call for the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to launch a probe into the corruption allegations.
Nzimande Willingness to Cooperate with Investigation
Minister Nzimande, while maintaining his innocence, expresses a willingness to cooperate with any investigation into the corruption allegations. Despite refuting the claims, he asserts that he has no objections to facing scrutiny from the SIU and is open to a fair and thorough investigation.
Legal Action Against OUTA
In response to OUTA’s allegations, Minister Nzimande not only denies any wrongdoing but also announces his intention to take legal action against the organisation. This move indicates his determination to clear his name through legal means.
Nzimande Transparency
Asserting his transparency, Nzimande declares, “I don’t have a problem with the SIU if it’s given a proper proclamation to investigate whatever wants to investigate. I have no problems.” This statement reinforces his confidence in being exonerated through a proper and unbiased investigation.
Conclusion
Minister Nzimande remains steadfast in the face of corruption allegations, expressing his determination to prove his innocence through legal and investigative processes.