Current Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has yet more allegations to answer for, after the Democratic Alliance (DA) has questioned her integrity publicly. Minister Tolashe is in charge of all social welfare and SASSA grants, which accounts for the country’s second highest fiscal expense after debt servicing.
As such, allegations that Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has been diverting public funds for private benefit are very seriously. Therefore, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Bridget Masango (DA), says if the allegations are found to be true, she will face heavy censure.
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER SISISI TOLASHE
Masango says her committee views any allegations in a serious light. “If true, this is not just a technical breach of the rules but a violation of public trust. Office bearers like the social development minister are expected to act within the law. And to uphold the highest standards of integrity in how they conduct their affairs,” said the chairperson.
“Therefore, Tolashe will be invited to appear before the committee to respond to these allegations,” confirmed Masango. The social development minister is responsible for a dedicated SASSA social grant budget of R292 billion annually. While the broader Social Development beyond social welfare sits nearer to R430 billion of taxpayer money for 2026/27. Implicit public trust is required in whomever runs this department.
ANCWL CHINESE SUV SCANDAL
Both ActionSA and the DA allege the social development minister benefited from approximately R1 million. Two BAIC SUVs donated by Chinese representatives intended for the African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) were registered in Tolashe’s children’s names. One of which has already reportedly been sold for profit.
In the immediate aftermath, Tolashe told the ANC’s Integrity Commission she didn’t declare the cars to protect them from possible seizure due to the party’s ongoing financial strife. ActionSA proceeded to open a criminal case of corruption against the social development minister. And it filed complaints with the Public Protector and Parliament’s Ethics Committee, too.
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER IN HOT WATER
Adding fuel to the fire, the DA has also written to President Cyril Ramaphosa for action. It is requesting proof that the vehicles were properly authorised. According to the Executive Ethics Code, all gifts exceeding R1 000 require prior approval. At the end of the day, the Portfolio Committee on Social Development is merely concerned over governance and accountability within one of the country’s most important departments.
But what do you think? Does this bring Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe and her governance into question? Or is this merely a witch hunt against her? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below …
