Tourism Board Controversy Erupts as De Lille Fires Members Amid CEO Probe

South Africa’s tourism sector is facing turmoil after Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille unilaterally dismissed the SA Tourism board, a move that critics describe as “gross political interference”. The board had been investigating allegations of non-performance and financial irregularities against CEO Nombulelo Guliwe, who had reportedly bypassed proper procurement processes.

Board Members Accuse Minister of Misrepresentation

Oupa Pilane, one of the dismissed board members, said De Lille falsely claimed the board had held an “irregular” meeting on 1 August, justifying their removal. Pilane insisted no such meeting took place, calling the claim “a deliberate attempt to silence a board poised to investigate serious misconduct, including the irregular appointment of the CEO.”

According to Pilane, the top-ranked candidate in the CEO selection process was overlooked despite being more suitable, and the Minister allegedly misled Cabinet by promoting Guliwe, who had previously faced disciplinary action for financial transgressions.

Minister Defends Her Actions

De Lille has defended her decision, claiming the board acted outside the Tourism Act’s provisions. Reports, however, suggest that a previous board’s findings indicated Guliwe was grossly unsuitable for the CEO role, showing poor planning, approval of unlawful contracts, and disregard for proper risk management. The chair and deputy who compiled that report were also dismissed by De Lille.

Pilane warned that dismantling the board erodes public trust, disrupts ongoing tourism programs, and risks deterring investors, especially as South Africa prepares for global events like the G20 Summit.

Civil Society Weighs In

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) slammed the Minister’s decision as “a direct assault on governance and accountability”. CEO Wayne Duvenage said:

“When a state entity board acts with integrity, it deserves support. Political interference undermines accountability and signals that personal agendas outweigh public good.”

Pilane described being fired as a “badge of honour” and called on South Africans to demand transparency.

“Tourism is our shared heritage – a source of pride and opportunity. We cannot allow it to be hijacked by those prioritising personal agendas.”

A Sector at a Crossroads

The incident comes at a delicate moment for South Africa’s tourism industry, which is recovering from the pandemic and gearing up for international exposure. Observers warn that ongoing political interference could stall reforms, weaken oversight, and harm investor confidence, leaving the sector vulnerable at a critical juncture.

{Source: The Citizen}

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