At least two officials have been provisionally suspended after they allegedly leaked Higher and Tertiary education minister Blade Nzimande’s audio recording.
Nzimande was addressing members of his communication team when one of them allegedly recorded it.
His mischievous deeds saw the recording going viral on various social media platforms and the suspensions have been mooted.
The department’s director-general, Dr Nkosinathi Sishi, said the department has noted with extreme disappointment the recent articles in the media.
It goes against morals and ethics for anyone to record someone against their will and this is what led to their suspension.
It is not clear if they are going to appeal the suspension but they still have to face a disciplinary hearing.
Sishi said given the seriousness of the matter, the department immediately conducted an internal investigation, which has led to the suspension of two officials.
While the department is also having it’s internal investigations, they have also incorporated the South African Police Services (SAPS) on the issue.
“The code of conduct for public servants demands of government employees to not use or disclose any official information for personal gain or the gain of others. It is against this background that the department has acted swiftly and continues with its internal investigations,” Sishi added.
Nzimande is yet to speak publicly about the audio leak.