Against Minister Nkabane: Democratic Alliance (DA) members, led by Karabo Khakhau of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee for Higher Education, have officially laid criminal charges against Higher Education and Training Minister Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane. The charges relate to alleged fraudulent conduct and political interference regarding appointments to the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) board.
The incident unfolded at the Cape Town Central Police Station, where Khakhau was accompanied by senior DA figures, including Helen Zille, Chairperson of the DA Federal Council, and Baxolile Nodada, the party’s Deputy Chief Whip in the National Assembly. The DA leadership maintains that Minister Nkabane misled Parliament and unlawfully appointed individuals with ties to the African National Congress (ANC) to influential SETA positions.
According to the DA, these appointments circumvent legal procedures and violate the integrity of South Africa’s education sector. The party accuses the Minister of constructing a false narrative around the formation of an independent panel, using it as a smokescreen to mask political patronage.
Helen Zille: “Ramaphosa’s Double Standards on Corruption”
Addressing reporters outside the police station, Zille criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa for what she called “selective accountability.” She argued that serious allegations such as fraud and political interference go unpunished under his administration, while trivial matters are treated with disproportionate severity.
“Those kinds of actions go unchecked, whereas what President Ramaphosa perceives as a slight—such as a deputy minister not requesting permission for a personal trip—is punished severely. Meanwhile, serious fraud is somehow condoned,” said Zille.
She further noted that the current government has failed to uphold its commitment to anti-corruption, despite public declarations. “We are here to show that Parliament is not above the law,” added Zille.
Political Accountability in Higher Education
The DA has long positioned itself as a watchdog for democratic governance and institutional transparency. In laying these charges, the party reiterates its stance that South Africa’s higher education sector must be free from undue political influence and must prioritize merit-based appointments.
The SETA board plays a pivotal role in developing skills, promoting youth employment, and driving national training initiatives. Interference at this level has far-reaching consequences for students, educators, and employers alike.
As noted by Khakhau, “We cannot allow our education system to be manipulated for political gain. This is a breach of public trust and a direct violation of our Constitution.”
Legal and Political Repercussions
Legal experts suggest that if proven, the Minister could face charges including perjury, abuse of office, and contravention of oversight regulations. This incident may also lead to a broader parliamentary inquiry and renewed scrutiny of other state entity appointments.
A formal response from Minister Nkabane or her department has yet to be issued. However, ANC officials have dismissed the DA’s accusations as politically motivated ahead of next year’s general elections.
You can read the DA’s full statement here or follow live updates via their official @Our_DA Twitter account.
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This development follows ongoing calls from civil society organizations, such as Corruption Watch, for increased transparency in public sector appointments. The latest revelations only deepen concerns about the governance of public institutions in South Africa.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Governance?
As the dust settles around these criminal charges, the spotlight remains firmly on the ANC-led government and its capacity—or willingness—to uphold democratic standards. Whether this case marks a shift toward accountability or becomes another unresolved controversy remains to be seen.
In the meantime, the DA continues to demand that the President and Parliament enforce ethical governance across all branches of the state.
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By: Political News Desk
