CAPE TOWN - Democratic Alliance leader Geordin Hill-Lewis has written to President Cyril Ramaphosa asking him to fire embattled Minister of Social Development Sisi Tolashe from Cabinet.
In his letter dated 30 April, Hill-Lewis says the Government of National Unit must be held to a higher standard of accountability, integrity and clean government.
"The allegations now facing Minister Tolashe can no longer be treated as a minor political controversy or an internal party matter," wrote Hill-Lewis.
"What began with serious questions about vehicles allegedly donated for the benefit of the ANC Women’s League, and reportedly registered in the names of the Minister’s children, has now expanded into a broader set of allegations involving possible abuse of public office, possible misleading of Parliament, and alleged misuse of state-funded personnel for private household purposes,"
"These allegations strike directly at the standards expected of a member of the national executive."
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Tolashe faces serious allegations regarding corruption, misconduct, and the misuse of public funds. These include failing to declare two luxury SUVs, improper hiring, and exploiting departmental staff.
Earlier this month, ActionSA MP Dereleen James filed criminal charges against Tolashe, accusing her of misleading Parliament.
"The Department of Social Development must be an example of care, integrity and service. I therefore urge you to immediately remove Minister Tolashe from the national executive."
He said the president's decision now will be another test of the seriousness of the GNU’s commitment to clean government.
"It will show whether the promise of reform applies only in speeches, or whether it applies equally to members of the Cabinet when difficult urgent action is required," said Hill-Lewis.