NSFAS Khosa Claims Cannot Be Retracted By OUTA

NSFAS Khosa Claims Cannot Be Retracted By OUTA. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has declared its steadfast position, refusing to retract claims against Ernest Khosa, who is currently on leave amid an inquiry into damning recordings involving him and Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande.

OUTA accuses Khosa and Nzimande of defrauding the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) through alleged kickbacks from service providers. Despite a demand from Khosa lawyers to withdraw the report posted on OUTA’s website over a month ago, OUTA’s CEO, Wayne Duvenage, remains unconvinced of the need for retraction and questions the urgency surrounding the matter.

Demand for Retraction

OUTA received a letter from Ernest Khosa’s legal representatives, urging the civil society organization to retract the report within a remarkably short timeframe. Wayne Duvenage expresses his surprise at the demand, highlighting the month-long gap between the report’s publication and the subsequent request for retraction. The unusual timeline raises questions about the motive behind the urgency.

Lack of Substantive Grounds

Duvenage asserts that, upon careful examination of Khosa’s lawyers’ letters, OUTA finds no substantial grounds to warrant a retraction. He emphasizes that OUTA has not violated any laws or regulations in its report and, therefore, sees no reason to comply with the demand. This stance is indicative of OUTA’s confidence in the accuracy and legality of their claims.

Willingness to Engage

Despite the refusal to retract, OUTA shows openness to engagement with Khosa. Duvenage mentions the organization’s willingness to meet with Khosa if he desires clarification or discussion on the matter. This gesture reflects OUTA’s commitment to transparency and a fair resolution of the allegations.

Ludicrous Demand Timeline

Duvenage points out the perceived ludicrousness of the two-working-day timeline given by Khosa’s lawyers. This short period for retraction is seen as impractical and raises suspicions about the underlying motivations behind the demand. OUTA decision not to comply within this timeframe emphasizes its dedication to a thorough and considered response.

Conclusion

OUTA remains resolute in its refusal to retract the report accusing Ernest Khosa and Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande of defrauding NSFAS. The organization CEO, Wayne Duvenage, asserts the lack of substantive grounds for retraction and questions the unusual urgency attached to the demand. OUTA commitment to transparency is evident in its willingness to engage with Khosa, despite maintaining its position that the report will not be retracted at this time. The unfolding events underscore the complexities surrounding allegations of fraud within NSFAS and the efforts of civil society organizations to uphold accountability in the face of legal challenges.