The recent conduct of minister of higher education Dr Nobuhle Nkabane has proven that transparency and accountability are too much to ask for from our ministers and other officials who hold public office.
On May 30, Nkabane flatly refused to account to the parliamentary portfolio about the contentious appointment of board chairpersons for the Sector Education and Training Authority (Seta), which have since been cancelled following public outrage.
During her appearance, parliament rightfully demanded answers on the process followed to appoint the chairpersons of the 21 Setas, most of whom were politicians and politically connected individuals.
Nkabane showed disregard for the portfolio committee and South Africans as she refused to respond in a manner that would inspire confidence. She claimed there was an independent panel that produced the names of the nominees, but when asked how that “independent panel” was constituted, she arrogantly told MPs to consult Google, refusing to account for the credibility and formation of this panel.
It’s uncertain what went through her mind when she gave that response, but it was basically showing a middle finger to South Africans and voters who have been outraged by the appointment of those chairpersons.
We also need to look at the relationship dynamics between ministers and parliament portfolio committees as this is not the first official in a senior position who has undermined parliament.
She thought cancelling the appointments was the shortcut to evading accountability, but she was wrong, because ordinary South Africans need the confidence that appointment processes are not flawed and are fair.
With that arrogant response, she missed an opportunity to redeem herself and the very department that she is entrusted to lead. With proper preparation, her appearance before the portfolio committee was an opportunity to play open cards with the committee and regain the confidence of South Africans that she is a capable leader and servant of the people.
According to the constitution, parliament is given powers to perform an oversight and accountability function over all organs of state, which include departments and ministers who hold that office. It would seem from the attitude and hostility shown by Nkabane towards the portfolio committee in parliament that she seems to not understand this.
As a minister, Nkabane should know better. She should know that being a minister is not a birthright and evidently not due to her individual brilliance. She is an appointed official entrusted to serve the public interest of the South African citizen, and by extension the government elected and taxes paid by the people.
For her to come to parliament and grandstand while clearly there are serious concerns in her department is completely uncalled for. She works against the very principle of building public trust and being accountable in the position she has been tasked to be a steward of.
We also need to look at the relationship dynamics between ministers and parliament portfolio committees as this is not the first official in a senior position who has undermined parliament.
Former minister of public enterprises Pravin Gordhan also refused to answer certain questions on the SAA deal and threatened to take legal action against the parliamentary committee.
Then there was former Eskom CEO Andre de Ruyter, who dropped a bombshell during a Scopa meeting, alleging that a minister was part of a crew that enabled graft at the power utility. When pressed to name that minister, he refused. The list is endless.
What will parliament do about this? What recourse do they have against a rogue and uncooperative individual who only “answers to her boss”? How does parliament adequately dispense its oversight and accountability responsibilities and duties?
President Cyril Ramaphosa has intervened by summoning the minister to his office to explain herself. So what was the purpose of the parliament session if accountability has no consequences? This is the fundamental problem we see playing out at all levels of government.
Bodies meant to oversee performance and ensure accountability have no teeth. This would explain the way they phrased accountability, as if you can just go to parliament, tell them whatever and however much and it would mean nothing, especially if you are a minister because ultimately only one person can act against your corruption or non-performance or any other illegal or unethical transgression.
Will the president have the appetite to do something about it?
Historically, Ramaphosa has failed to swiftly hold his officials accountable or dismiss non-performers and corrupt officials right under his nose.
After her meeting with Ramaphosa, we will see what comes out of it and if indeed the “independent panel” is as independent and credible as the minister claims. If not, she would have lied to parliament and there should be consequence management.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.