ActionSA in the Free State says Premier Maqueen Letsoha–Mathae should be held accountable for appointing Jabu Mbalula as the acting Premier despite reports that he’s insolvent and under debt administration.
The party says the appointment is potentially unlawful because individuals declared insolvent are disqualified from holding public office.
ActionSA has called for Mbalula’s immediate removal.
The party’s provincial chairperson, Patricia Kopane, says the Premier must explain why proper background checks were not conducted in appointing Mbalula.
“The Director General of the province, who’s responsible for overseeing the smooth running of the province must thoroughly do the background check and the vetting. So one is asking himself or herself, how can such a person be appointed in office, knowing his financial position. It is really embarrassing to see what is happening.”
Meanwhile, Letsoha-Mathae and her husband Lawrence Mathae are facing scrutiny over a R269 million road construction project.
In October, a leaked WhatsApp message from contractor New Beginnings CEO Patrick Phuti alleges they accepted millions in bribes.
The tender was terminated due to irregularities and the contractor’s business rescue status.
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