Gwarube questioned over claims of interfering in appointment process of her department

Members of Parliament's Basic Education Portfolio Committee have questioned Minister Siviwe Gwarube over claims of “cadre deployment” in the filling of key positions in her department.

Some committee members from the African National Congress (ANC) said Gwarube intervened in the shortlisting of a candidate for the position of Deputy Director-General responsible for curriculum.

But Gwarube has dismissed the claims, saying no qualified candidate has been excluded from the process, which is still ongoing.

Tuesday's meeting was to discuss the shortlisting of people to fill key positions in the department.

This follows reports that Gwarube intervened in the recruitment process and whether she had any links to the individual who was ultimately shortlisted for deputy director general for curriculum.

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"The allegation that was made in this committee is that the recruitment process that was started by the department resulted in situation where first person recommended by panel was disregarded, and there was clear instruction from the minister that the second person must be recommended and the allegation is that it’s cadre deployment," said committee chairperson, Joy Maimela.

But Gwarube said she did everything within the bounds of the law and has no knowledge of the person who was recommended.

"I want to state on the record that one, I have never met the individual that I have recommended. I have never heard of her before they applied. I don’t know this individual and I have never interacted with them.

Maimela said the committee will get legal advice on the matter before formulating a position.