Johannesburg – Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Sihle Lonzi was forcibly removed from a parliamentary committee meeting after questioning the Director-General about the appointment of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe’s son to the SETA board.
The incident follows the Democratic Alliance (DA)’s revelation of a leaked list of Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) board appointments, exposing widespread political patronage.
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The list includes ANC loyalists, such as Mantashe’s son and a former KZN Premier, in key positions.
DA Demands Accountability
Karabo Khakhau MP, DA Member of the Committee on Higher Education and Training, stated: “These appointments confirm the ANC’s blatant abuse of SETA boards for political gain. We demand Minister Nkabane explain why qualified South Africans are being sidelined for connected cadres.”
SETA boards play a crucial role in skills development and unemployment reduction, yet Minister Nkabane’s appointments prioritize political connections over merit.
Next Steps
The DA has urgently written to Parliament to summon the Minister for questioning. Khakhau warned: “The DA will not allow SETAs to become ANC deployment committees. We’ll fight for transparency and skills-based appointments that benefit all South Africans.”
Controversial Appointments Exposed:
- Buyambo Mantashe (son of ANC Chair Gwede Mantashe) – MERSETA Board Chair
- Nomusa Dube-Ncube (ex-KZN Premier) – BANKSETA Board Chair
- Siboniso Mbhele (KZN Transport HOD) – Given SETA board role
- Loyiso Masuku (ANC Johannesburg Deputy Secretary) – Key appointment
[Full list available here]
*This article first appeared in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za
