Justice Minister embroiled in controversy surrounding looting of VBS Mutual Bank, prompting calls for accountability and transparency within the ruling party.
(The Post News)- Justice Minister Thembi Simelane is set to face the African National Congress (ANC) Integrity Commission over her alleged involvement in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal. The minister’s implication in the looting of the bank has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for her to be held accountable.
The VBS Bank scandal, which came to light in 2018, involved the looting of over R2 billion from the bank, largely by politicians and businesspeople. Simelane’s name implicated, with allegations emerging that she had received illicit payments from the bank.
The ANC Integrity Commission’s investigation into Simelane’s conduct is expected to be far-reaching, examining her role in the scandal and determining whether her actions have compromised the integrity of the justice system. The probe will also assess whether Simelane’s behavior has brought the ANC into disrepute.
As the investigation looms, Simelane’s future within the party hangs in the balance. Insiders suggest that the minister’s position is increasingly untenable, with senior ANC leaders growing weary of the negative attention surrounding her.
The controversy has also sparked a broader debate about the ANC’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Critics argue that the party’s failure to address Simelane’s conduct has undermined its credibility and reinforced perceptions of impunity among its leaders.
As the Integrity Commission prepares to convene, South Africans await the outcome with bated breath. Will the ANC take decisive action to address the controversy, or will Simelane emerge unscathed? The answer will have far-reaching implications for the party’s reputation and the country’s faith in its leadership.
The VBS Bank scandal has already claimed several high-profile scalps, including that of former ANC Limpopo chairperson, Cassel Mathale. Simelane’s implication in the scandal has raised questions about the extent of the rot within the party and whether those responsible will be held accountable.
In a statement, the ANC Integrity Commission confirmed that Simelane would be summoned to appear before it, saying: “The Commission takes allegations of misconduct by ANC members seriously and will investigate all matters brought before it.”
Simelane’s office has thus far declined to comment on the matter, fueling speculation about her future within the party.
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