Absent ministers under fire

PARLIAMENT wants Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe to take stern action against ministers and directors-general who have snubbed oversight committee meetings over the last two weeks.

Cedric Frolick, the house chairman responsible for portfolio committees in the National Assembly, told the Sunday Times it was unacceptable for DGs and ministers to snub parliamentary meetings without giving valid reasons.

At least six DGs and ministers failed to show up for meetings in the past two weeks, almost all saying they were travelling abroad.

Frolick said several chairmen of parliamentary committees had complained to him about the failure of DGs to attend meetings scheduled to scrutinise their annual reports.

"It's completely unacceptable and it undermines parliament," said Frolick.

He said he would discuss the matter with the speaker of the National Assembly, Max Sisulu, with the intention of bringing it to the attention of Motlanthe in his capacity as leader of government business.

"It's definitely a matter that needs to be discussed with the leader of government business so that there's a clear message that goes out.

"We cannot treat parliament in the way that some people are doing; conveniently they are simply not available when they must come and account.

"It's unacceptable and it needs to be addressed urgently," Frolick said.

But government spokesman Jimmy Manyi defended the DGs, saying there was no intention to disrespect the legislature.

"Sometimes the problem is the change of dates and it can throw things out.

"Accounting is high on the agenda of government and the main person that must be there is the director-general," Manyi said.

"If the DG is not there I am sure there will be a compelling reason. When parliament calls, all of us in the executive and the administration answer. When they say 'jump', the one question we ask is, 'how high?'"

Among those criticised this week for no-shows in parliament were Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, his deputy Gwen Ramokgopa and DG Precious Matsoso, who told the health committee that they were overseas.

Menzi Simelane, the head of the National Prosecuting Authority and his chief financial officer Gordon Holambi were also slammed for being absent.

Simelane was apparently in Rwanda while there was no explanation for Holambi's non-attendance.