By: Lethabo Mathole
The EFF has called for the immediate resignation of Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Thembi Simelane over allegations that she received a loan of more than R500,000 from a company that allegedly obtained “unlawful” funds from VBS Mutual Bank.
The loan was reportedly used to purchase a coffee shop in Sandton, although Simelane asserts that she repaid the loan.
In a statement on Tuesday, the EFF said the scandal involving Simelane is not just a tale of financial mismanagement; it is a stark example of the rot within the ANC’s leadership.
“The EFF demands that Simelane step down immediately as Justice Minister. Her resignation is the only appropriate course of action to preserve the integrity of our justice system and to allow for an independent and impartial investigation into her actions. Furthermore, we call on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in holding her accountable,” the party said.
According to the party, Commander-in-Chief Julius Malema first alerted the nation to what it termed a shocking abuse of power by Simelane during a press conference of the Progressive Caucus on July 18.
The party pointed out that as mayor, Simelane played a pivotal role in enabling “unlawful” deposits into VBS Bank—deposits which the EFF said were part of a larger scheme involving multiple municipalities and state entities across South Africa.
In addition, the EFF echoed COPE’s sentiments and called for the immediate resignation of Simelane following the “revelations of her involvement in looting the VBS Mutual Bank.”
The party’s national spokesperson, Leigh-Ann Mathys, stated that as the current Minister of Justice, Simelane oversees crucial institutions like the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), which is investigating and prosecuting those involved in the VBS collapse. Therefore, she must be removed.
Mathys said Simelane’s resignation is the only appropriate course of action to preserve the integrity of the justice system and to allow for an independent and impartial investigation into her actions.
“Furthermore, we call on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in holding her accountable, ensuring that she faces the full consequences of her betrayal of public trust,” she said.
Meanwhile, ActionSA Parliamentary Leader Athol Trollip has written to President Ramaphosa, informing him of the allegations against the minister. “These allegations have prompted ActionSA to file a request with the Public Protector for an urgent investigation,” he said.
