Mbalula Defends Nkabane, Labels DA Charges as ‘Opportunistic Politics’

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has lashed out at the Democratic Alliance (DA) for laying criminal charges against Higher Education Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, calling the move “opportunistic” and a case of “performative politics.”

Speaking during a media briefing in Johannesburg on Monday, Mbalula came out strongly in support of Nkabane, who faces accusations of misleading Parliament about appointments to the boards of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).

“The minister, did she lie? We say no, she didn’t lie,” said Mbalula.
“She went to Parliament and gave the information.”

What the DA is claiming

DA MP Karabo Khakhau lodged the complaint last week, alleging that Nkabane falsely claimed an independent panel was responsible for the SETA appointments. According to the DA, one of the supposed chairpersons named by Nkabane confirmed he was not involved in the process, raising red flags over transparency and political interference.

“She falsely claimed an independent panel made the appointments,” Khakhau told media.
“Including a chair who confirmed he wasn’t involved.”

The DA has taken a hard stance, vowing to vote against the department’s budget and any other budgets “led by corrupt ANC ministers.”

Mbalula: The Law Is Clear

In response, Mbalula cited the Skills Development Act of 1998, arguing that Nkabane was well within her legal rights to appoint individuals to the accounting authority of SETAs, including their chairpersons.

“The law is very clear on this matter,” he said.
“If others say ministers have not admitted errors or apologised, that person is a liar.”

He also warned that the DA’s actions form part of an effort to “collapse the government” through legal distractions and political grandstanding.

Hawks Confirm Investigation

Despite the ANC’s defence of the minister, the Hawks have confirmed they are investigating the matter following the DA’s official complaint. However, no further details have been released about the timeline or scope of the investigation.

Political Flashpoint

The issue has become another flashpoint in South Africa’s post-election political landscape, with tensions high between the ANC and opposition parties in the newly formed Government of National Unity (GNU).

Mbalula’s robust defence signals the ANC’s unwillingness to concede on issues it sees as politically motivated, while the DA continues to push for greater accountability and transparency in public appointments.

With the Hawks investigation now underway, the political and legal processes will unfold in parallel. If Nkabane is cleared, it could reinforce ANC claims of DA politicking. If not, it may fuel opposition calls for deeper reform and increased scrutiny of ministerial powers.

{Source: IOL}

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