President Cyril Ramaphosa Requests Time To Decide On Justice Minister Thembi Simelane
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has requested additional time to evaluate the situation surrounding Minister of Justice Thembi Simelane.
- Recent reports suggest that Ramaphosa might have been aware of Simelane’s alleged involvement in the infamous VBS Mutual Bank scandal.
- Political pressure is mounting as Ramaphosa’s allies in the Government of National Unity urge him to break his silence and take action.
Tebogo Mokwena, a seasoned journalist with Briefly News, has been covering policy changes, the State of the Nation Address, political developments, and elections in Johannesburg, South Africa, for over seven years. His work has appeared in Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News.
JOHANNESBURG—President Cyril Ramaphosa finds himself in a tough spot, asking for a bit more time before making a call on Justice Minister Thembi Simelane's alleged involvement in the VBS Mutual Bank saga. This decision isn’t just about one individual—it has implications for the entire administration and how the public perceives its commitment to rooting out corruption.
Why Ramaphosa’s Silence Is Making Waves
According to TimesLIVE, Ramaphosa is feeling the heat from the Democratic Alliance, which is urging him to step up and speak out. The allegations against Simelane, who served as the mayor of Polokwane, suggest that she benefited from the VBS Mutual Bank during her tenure. Reports claim she received a R586,000 loan through a third-party financial services provider, which she allegedly used to purchase a restaurant. This has sparked outrage and calls for accountability.
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The situation becomes even more complicated when you consider a recent media report that claims Simelane confided in Ramaphosa after being appointed Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance three years ago. The Democratic Alliance wants answers: If Ramaphosa was aware of her alleged loan, why didn’t he act sooner? The pressure is real, and the stakes are high.
Understanding the Bigger Picture: Simelane and the VBS Scandal
Political Parties Weigh In
- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) hasn’t held back, demanding Simelane’s resignation following these allegations. The EFF has long been vocal about rooting out corruption, and this case is no exception.
- ActionSA, another vocal opposition party, has also called for Simelane’s resignation, expressing concerns about her potential influence over the National Prosecuting Authority. They fear her presence could undermine the integrity of the justice system.
- ActionSA celebrated a small victory after successfully laying charges against Simelane for her alleged role in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal. It’s a step forward in holding those accountable who may have exploited the financial system.
South Africans Speak Out: Social Media Reaction
Social media has been buzzing with reactions as people weigh in on Ramaphosa’s request for more time. Many users on Facebook have expressed frustration, questioning whether the delay is justified or just another example of bureaucratic foot-dragging.
Rodney Matthews summed up the sentiment perfectly: "CR always has to apply his mind. Two to three weeks isn’t long enough for him. Don’t hold your breath." It seems many South Africans feel that Ramaphosa’s deliberate pace is more of a hinderance than a help.
Ferdi Thomson added another layer to the conversation: "In the past, it was easy to let the corrupt go. Now Ramaphosa needs to consider the GNU, especially the DA." This highlights the balancing act Ramaphosa faces as he navigates the complexities of coalition politics.
Spokes Mashiyane chimed in with a direct critique: "Dragging his feet as usual on thugs in his administration." Clearly, patience is wearing thin among the public, who are eager to see decisive action.
Ofentse Fefe Sekati was equally blunt: "Ramaphosa is an embarrassment of note." For many, the delay in addressing Simelane’s situation is symbolic of larger issues within the government’s approach to corruption.
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Simelane Faces the ANC’s Integrity Commission
Adding another chapter to this unfolding story, Briefly News reported that Simelane was summoned to appear before the African National Congress’s Integrity Commission. This move comes in response to the allegations that she received a loan from VBS Mutual Bank through a financial lender. The commission’s investigation could play a pivotal role in determining the next steps for Simelane and, by extension, the reputation of the ANC itself.
As the nation watches closely, the outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding corruption within South Africa’s political landscape. It’s a critical moment, one that could set a precedent for future actions against those accused of financial misconduct.
