Simelane must account for VBS-linked corruption allegations against her: Judges Matter
On Monday, a joint investigation by News 24 and the Daily Maverick revealed Simelane used a commercial loan of over R500,000 to purchase a coffee shop in Sandton.
Justice Minister Thembi Simelane. Picture: @GovernmentZA/X
JOHANNESBURG - Civil society organisations are calling for an urgent explanation from Justice Minister Thembi Simelane on corruption allegations against her regarding the now defunct VBS Mutual Bank.
The groups have expressed concern over the minister's silence following reports detailing the alleged transgressions.
On Monday, a joint investigation by News 24 and the Daily Maverick revealed Simelane used a commercial loan of over R500,000 to purchase a coffee shop in Sandton.
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It’s understood the loan was taken during her tenure as the mayor of Polokwane from the same company that facilitated some R349 million worth of municipal investments into the mutual bank.
Judges Matter says Simelane’s position is crucial in the fight against corruption.
The organisation’s Mbekezeli Benjamin said this is the reason Simelane should account urgently.
"The minister of justice oversees the institutions which are supposed to be holding people accountable for corruption. This is why we need a minister who is above reproach, a minister who does not have allegations of corruption hanging over her head."