PRESS STATEMENT
Tuesday, 22 July 2025

The removal of Dr Nobuhle Nkabane as Minister of Higher Education and Training is an important shift in the leadership of the higher education sector. Her disdain for Parliamentary accountability and reported fabricated Seta Board appointments has correctly led to her removal.

Similarly, the decision to suspend Adv Andrew Chauke, South Gauteng Director of Public Prosecutions, pending an inquiry into his fitness to hold office, is a necessary step to protect the credibility of the National Prosecuting Authority. The two years that it has taken to get to this point is a matter of concern.

While these actions are welcomed, they should not be isolated. There remain other ministers and senior officials whose conduct has fallen short of the standards expected of those in public office. Selective accountability weakens public trust and undermines the constitutional obligation to ensure ethical, competent, and transparent leadership across government.

If we are serious about rebuilding state institutions and public confidence, decisive action must be taken against all those who fail to meet the ethical and professional standards of office, regardless of political standing or portfolio. South Africans deserve leadership that serves the people, upholds the highest ethical standards, serves the public good, and restores faith in our democracy.

Accountability cannot be selective. These recent decisions must not be isolated events. We expect them to be part of a broader and sustained commitment to clean, credible governance.

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Issued by: The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation

For more information contact:

Anele Gcwabe

Communication Manager

Ahmed Kathrada Foundation

083 2788 832

anele@kathradafoundation.org