The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls for justice minister Thembi Simelane to step aside from her role pending the current investigation into her R500 000 loan from VBS-linked broker Gundo Wealth Solutions.
In August, the Daily Maverick reported that Simelane received R575 600 from Gundo to purchase a coffee shop in Sandton. On Friday, 6 September, Simelane appeared before the justice and constitutional development portfolio committee to answer for the dodgy loan.
CALLS FOR THEMBI SIMELANE TO STEP ASIDE INTENSIFY
On Friday, Simelane said she thought Gundo Wealth Solutions was a registered financial service provider when asked by MPs why she applied for an expensive, loan which she claims she paid back with 47.5% interest, instead of approaching commercial banks.
DA spokesperson on justice and constitutional development Glynnis Breytenbach said that despite whether Simelane has repaid the loan from Gundo Wealth Solutions, the money involved is tainted.
Breytenbach said the loan’s apparent exorbitant interest rate raises serious concerns. She added that it is highly questionable why the former Polokwane mayor chose to engage with an entity not registered as a financial service provider, Gundo Wealth Solutions, which received the money from VBS bank.
“It’s unclear why the minister did not approach an ordinary commercial bank,” she said.
Breytenbach also said they believe that Simelane’s current role as minister places her in an untenable conflict of interest. As the head of the justice system, she oversees the institutions, like the NPA, who lead the investigation into this matter and the broader VBS matter.
“This situation undermines the independence of the Criminal Justice System, which is crucial for maintaining public trust.
“Minister Simelane’s continued presence in the role sows distrust among the public and compromises the integrity of the Justice Department. She must step aside to allow for a thorough and unbiased investigation into these matters,” she said.
Likewise, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said Simelane’s continued presence in her role threatens the integrity of the VBS investigations and undermines the pursuit of justice.
“Simelane’s attempts to dismiss her actions as a legitimate commercial transaction are a flimsy cover-up. Her failure to adequately address the conflict of interest, her role in facilitating these illegal investments, and her subsequent attempts to downplay her involvement indicate someone who cannot be trusted to oversee justice in our nation.”
DO YOU THINK THEMBI SIMELANE SHOULD STEP ASIDE AS JUSTICE MINISTER?
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