KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has acknowledged serious allegations against two provincial MECs, with growing calls for their resignation amid claims of misconduct.
Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane faces scrutiny after her family-owned business, Kwazi-Gugu Investments, allegedly received duplicate payments totaling R1.42 million from the provincial Agriculture Department. The funds, intended for livestock procurement, are linked to a Simelane family farm in Dannhauser, raising concerns about improper transactions.
Meanwhile, Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka is accused of improperly influencing contractor selection for the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP). The allegations have caused unrest among service providers, with the NSNP Service Providers Association threatening legal action.
Premier Ntuli’s office confirmed the matters are under review. Spokesperson Lindelani Mbatha stated that the allegations are being treated seriously and will be investigated.
The MK Party has demanded both MECs step down immediately and called for probes by the Hawks and Public Protector. The Democratic Alliance has also requested the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) to investigate the NSNP tender process.
The developments come as the provincial government faces mounting pressure to ensure accountability in its procurement systems.