Chaos erupted in a Parliamentary Portfolio Committee meeting today when Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) MP Sihle Lonzi was forcibly removed after pressing the Director-General (DG) on whether he was aware that ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe’s son had been appointed as a chairperson of a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) board.
The confrontation occurred during a session where Lonzi directly questioned the DG about potential nepotism in the appointment. “Are you aware that the son of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe has been appointed as a SETA board chairperson?” Lonzi demanded, refusing to back down despite calls to adhere to parliamentary procedure.
Committee Chairperson ordered Lonzi to withdraw the question, citing parliamentary rules, but the EFF MP stood firm, arguing that the matter was in the public interest. When Lonzi persisted, parliamentary security intervened, physically escorting him out of the chamber as fellow EFF members protested loudly.
The EFF condemned the removal, calling it an attempt to suppress accountability. “This is yet another example of the ANC shielding its cronies from scrutiny,” said EFF spokesperson [Name]. “If there is nothing to hide, why not answer the question?”
The ANC has not yet responded to the allegations, but political analysts suggest the incident could fuel further debate over governance and transparency within state entities. SETAs, responsible for skills development, have previously faced criticism over alleged political interference in appointments.
Lonzi, speaking to media after his removal, vowed to continue raising the issue. “We will not allow the ANC to turn state institutions into family businesses,” he said.
The confrontation highlights growing tensions in Parliament as opposition parties intensify scrutiny of ANC-linked appointments ahead of the 2024 elections.