ActionSA has intensified its calls for accountability following disturbing revelations about Justice Minister Thembi Simelane’s involvement in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal. The party is urging for an independent investigation into Simelane, who reportedly received a loan exceeding R500,000 from a company linked to the unlawful investments in the now-defunct bank.
At the time of the loan, Simelane served as the mayor of Polokwane Municipality, a city that controversially invested around R350 million in VBS Mutual Bank. This investment was part of a broader pattern of illegal deposits made by several municipalities across the country, which contributed to the bank’s eventual collapse and the loss of billions in public funds.
The connection between Simelane and the unlawful VBS investments has raised serious concerns, with ActionSA questioning the integrity of her position as the head of the justice department. The party argues that the loan, coupled with the significant municipal investment under her leadership, warrants a thorough and independent investigation to determine whether there was any wrongdoing or conflict of interest.
Herman Mashaba, the leader of ActionSA, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in government, particularly in cases involving large sums of public money. He called for the investigation to be conducted without political interference to restore public trust in South Africa’s justice system.
ActionSA’s demand comes amid growing public frustration over the slow pace of justice in the VBS scandal, which has seen few high-profile prosecutions despite the widespread corruption and financial misconduct involved. The party believes that an independent probe into Simelane’s dealings could shed light on the broader issues surrounding the VBS collapse and help hold those responsible to account.
Simelane has yet to publicly respond to these latest calls for an investigation. Previously, she has denied any wrongdoing in connection with the VBS investments during her tenure as mayor. However, the mounting pressure from ActionSA and other political groups may force her to address the allegations more directly.
The outcome of this situation could have significant implications for South Africa’s fight against corruption, particularly in how it deals with those in positions of power who are implicated in financial scandals.
