Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
04 December 2024 | 11:50 CAT

ActionSA MP Athol Trollip calls for urgent accountability as corruption allegations against Justice Minister Thembi Simelani threaten the integrity of South Africa’s justice system.

A storm of corruption allegations surrounds Justice Minister Thembi Simelani, prompting ActionSA to intensify its calls for accountability and decisive action from President Cyril Ramaphosa. ActionSA MP Athol Trollip has reiterated the party’s demand for the Minister to step aside, citing her inability to fulfil her constitutional duties amid the growing scandal.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Trollip highlighted the pressing need for integrity in South Africa’s justice system. “We’ve written to the President, urging him to act decisively,” Trollip said. “This is not just about allegations of corruption but about restoring the credibility of the justice ministry.”

The allegations against Simelani include unexplained wealth and connections to the VBS Mutual Bank scandal, which left countless Limpopo residents destitute. Trollip emphasized that the Minister’s leadership is untenable under such circumstances. “A minister of justice must be above reproach, ensuring justice is not only done but seen to be done,” he stated.

Despite calls for her resignation or suspension, there has been no substantive action from the Presidency. Trollip expressed frustration over what he described as “a tap-dancing response” from Ramaphosa. “If the President doesn’t have the courage to fire a minister he appointed, suspension is the next best option. Yet even that hasn’t happened,” he noted.

The VBS scandal casts a long shadow over South Africa, with municipal managers now implicated in illegal investments. Trollip believes this could lead to breakthroughs in exposing the true perpetrators. “The poorest people in Limpopo lost their life savings to the VBS heist. Slowly, those responsible are being held accountable, and as they face jail time, more will turn state witness,” he explained.

As pressure mounts, ActionSA has reiterated its commitment to justice and accountability. Trollip concluded, “This is a test of the President’s credibility.

listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and ActionSA MP Athol Trollip here.