The Public Protector has begun investigating the alleged misuse of millions in state funds by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Sicelo Shiceka, the Times reported on Wednesday.
“The president will be guided by the Public Protector’s report. He will pronounce his decision only once the investigation is completed,” said presidential spokesperson Zizi Kodwa.
Public Protector spokesperson Kgalalelo Masibi said the investigation had been delayed by Shiceka’s request for extensions.
“The Public Protector is currently evaluating the response and processing the investigation,” Masibi said.
He was unable to give a date for the completion of the investigation.
Shiceka allegedly spent taxpayers’ money on luxury hotels and first-class air tickets while visiting a jailed girlfriend in Switzerland.
Successor
The Mail & Guardian on June 10 said senior ANC sources had indicated that Shiceka has been told that he will be removed from Cabinet.
The race is on for his successor, with several provinces and factions wanting to ensure that their own candidate gets the job.
Three Gauteng ANC officials told the M&G that the ANC’s top six officials arranged for a representative to meet Shiceka to inform him that he will not return to his position, even if he recovers from the illness that has caused him to be placed on indefinite sick leave.
But ANC spokesperson Jackson Mthembu said he was unaware of such a visit. Shiceka is believed to be in the Eastern Cape, his home province.
The ANC has been under enormous pressure to get rid of Shiceka because of his dismal performance as minister and the sorry state of municipalities. – Sapa and Staff reporter