The special advisor to Sisisi Tolashe has been suspended following allegations that he helped alter a relative’s CV to secure her appointment within the department. The suspension comes after the Public Service Commission briefed Parliament on its investigation findings last week.
Ngwako Kgatla was placed on suspension with full pay while the Department of Social Development conducts a formal investigation into the matter. The department said the move would allow for a thorough and fair disciplinary process.
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PSC Finds Alleged Fraud In Tolashe Advisor CV Case
The PSC investigation centred on the appointment of 22-year-old Lesedi Mabiletja as Minister Tolashe’s private secretary. According to the commission, discrepancies were found between the CV Mabiletja submitted to Kgatla and the version later processed by the department’s human resources division.
The report found evidence of alleged collusion, forgery and fraud linked to the document. Investigators concluded that the applicant’s qualifications and work experience had been falsified.
PSC chairperson Somadoda Fikeni criticised the appointment process, saying it raised serious concerns within the department. He said it was troubling that a recent college graduate could be considered for such a senior position.
SIU Investigation Recommended In CV Manipulation Matter
The PSC has recommended that the Special Investigating Unit investigate the circumstances surrounding the submission and approval of the CV. The commission wants the SIU to determine whether fraud was committed during the recruitment process.
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Kgatla was not the only official implicated in the findings. The PSC said several individuals were allegedly involved in facilitating the appointment through the department’s HR processes, including Tolashe’s former chief of staff, who has since resigned.
Mabiletja resigned shortly after public scrutiny intensified over her appointment.
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Social Development Department Begins Disciplinary Process
The Department of Social Development confirmed that disciplinary proceedings are now being initiated against Kgatla. Officials said the department views the allegations seriously and intends to follow due process during the investigation.
“The department views the alleged misconduct seriously, as it remains committed to handling and finalising the investigation process by following due investigation processes and ensuring fairness,” the department said in a statement.
Kgatla will remain on suspension with full salary until the disciplinary and investigative processes are concluded.
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