Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande vehemently refuted corruption allegations put forth by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa), affirming his stance to retain his position despite mounting accusations.
Nzimande directly challenged the claims made by Outa, asserting that he, alongside NSFAS board chairperson Ernest Khosa, did not receive kickback payments from service providers. Addressing the media in a briefing he organized, Nzimande proclaimed his innocence, vehemently dismissing any involvement in corrupt activities.
“As the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, I deny any connection to diverting funds from department entities for personal use or channeling them to support the South African Communist Party (SACP),” Nzimande stated firmly.
He continued by refuting allegations of personal gains from NSFAS or its affiliated entities, vowing to confront these accusations legally.
Outa had recently disclosed voice recordings purporting to reveal a patronage network within the Department of Higher Education, implicating Nzimande, Khosa, and other officials. The civic group alleged a scheme orchestrated by corrupt entities to siphon NSFAS funds through irregular contracts, implicating high-ranking officials.
However, Nzimande labeled Outa’s report as “malicious and largely false,” attributing the allegations to a strategic “fight-back campaign.” He accused Outa of opportunistic collusion with entities it had previously investigated, denouncing the allegations as an orchestrated attempt to tarnish his reputation.
Expressing concern over the escalating situation, Nzimande highlighted threats received by Khosa, emphasizing the toll of these allegations on their personal safety.
Refusing to succumb to resignation pressure, Nzimande affirmed his determination to remain in office, citing a clear conscience and a commitment to challenging what he perceived as baseless accusations. He further expressed intent to engage with the ANC ethics and integrity bodies voluntarily.
“I have nothing to hide or fear. These allegations are part of a concerted effort to undermine our roles and vilify us unjustly,” Nzimande asserted firmly, dismissing any intentions of stepping down from his ministerial post.
Additionally, Nzimande announced plans for an urgent meeting with the NSFAS board to address the unfolding situation, seeking to address the allegations and chart a course of action moving forward.
