Political Parties Lay Criminal Charges Against Nzimande, NSFAS Board Chair. In a significant development, both the Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA have taken legal action by laying criminal charges against Dr Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation. The charges revolve around alleged involvement in defrauding the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) through illicit kickbacks. This action comes in the wake of damning allegations raised by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) regarding a patronage network within the Department of Higher Education.
OUTA Claims and Voice Recordings
Last week, Outa claimed to possess voice recordings containing damning allegations implicating Nzimande, NSFAS board chairperson Ernest Khoza, and others in a fraudulent scheme. The recordings suggest the orchestration of corrupt tenderpreneurs to loot NSFAS through irregular contracts. Outa released recordings of meetings between Khoza and a service provider’s representative, revealing substantial kickbacks to Nzimande, Khoza, and even the South African Communist Party (SACP).
Nzimande Response and Rejection of Allegations
In response to these allegations, Nzimande held a media briefing on Monday, vehemently rejecting the accusations. He pledged to take legal action and voluntarily submit himself to the African National Congress’s ethics and integrity bodies. Despite calls for his resignation, Nzimande maintained his innocence, asserting that there was no basis for him to step down.
Political Parties Reactions
The DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Karabo Khakhau, criticized Nzimande’s response, arguing that he failed to provide evidence countering Outa’s allegations. ActionSA also dismissed Nzimande’s press conference as a “theatrical attempt” to evade accountability. The party criticized him for invoking racial undertones and questioned his authority to represent the interests of poor students.
Criminal Charges and Outa Next Steps
Outa confirmed the drafting of criminal charges against Nzimande, Khoza, and others involved, citing corruption and bribery under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act. The organization plans to share its report and recordings with various institutions, including the Auditor-General, the Public Protector, legal authorities, and university oversight bodies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Outa reiterated its call for Nzimande and Khoza to resign, emphasizing that if they refuse, President Cyril Ramaphosa should take decisive action in the interest of the country. The unfolding situation adds pressure to address allegations of corruption within key institutions and highlights the need for transparency and accountability in higher education.
