Cape Town — The Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Tolashe, announced the preliminary suspension of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) CEO, Busisiwe Memela-Khambula.
In a statement, Minister Tolashe said the precautionary suspension was prompted by the need to investigate without hindrance or interference given her position as CEO. Tolashe also said the Office of the Public Protector raised issues that prompted her to take appropriate action due to her executive authority over SASSA.
Tolashe said the decision was important to protect her dignity and integrity and praised the humility of the CEO when the decision was taken to suspend her, adding that all decisions were made in the best interests of SASSA and all beneficiaries who depend on social assistance.
“Whilst we deal with a lot of challenges facing Sassa, we want to take decisive decisions that will ensure that our work is transparent, effective, and efficient and we have an organisation that will assist in fighting hunger and poverty in our country,” Tolashe said.
Themba Matlou, Regional Executive Manager for Gauteng, has been appointed as the acting CEO until the Memela-Khambula’s natter has been concluded.
MEDIA STATEMENT| SASSA CEO on precautionary suspension pending investigation
@The_DSD @nda_rsa @GovernmentZA @GCISMedia pic.twitter.com/6ELBsMYlNR
— SASSA (@OfficialSASSA) December 3, 2024
Mr. Themba Matlou has been appointed as the Acting SASSA CEO.@The_DSD@nda_rsa @GovernmentZA @GCISMedia pic.twitter.com/4pmkdO5QMm
— SASSA (@OfficialSASSA) December 3, 2024
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Picture: X/@OfficialSASSA
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
