Cape Town – The ANC in Limpopo has joined the debate on Justice Minister Thembi Simelane’s alleged indirect involvement with the collapsed VBS Mutual Bank.
Following a recent provincial executive committee meeting, the ANC said that anyone linked to the bank’s downfall should face legal consequences, Times Live reported.
Simelane, who was previously supported by the Limpopo ANC and seen as a rising star in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet, now faces scrutiny after reports suggested her indirect connection to VBS through a loan she received while serving as Polokwane mayor.
Opposition parties and civil society are calling for her resignation, and she has been summoned to appear before the ANC’s integrity commission.
The ANC is expected to discuss her future in a special NEC meeting on September 28.
Daily Maverick and News24 reported that Simelane’s case is currently under investigation, with the Hawks having raided the Polokwane municipal offices.
Meanwhile, Ramaphosa has received a report from Simelane regarding her alleged involvement in the VBS Mutual Bank looting scandal.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed the receipt of the report on Wednesday, noting that Ramaphosa will review the matter privately and consider all facts before making a decision, according to SA news.
“As stated before, the President will apply his mind over the matter. In doing so, the President will not engage issues that he manages with Ministers – including Minister Simelane – in the public domain,” the report quoted Magwenya as saying.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
