Parliament’s Ethics Committee has found former Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane guilty of gross misconduct. The ruling came on 24 March 2026. It stems from her misleading lawmakers and breaching the Executive Code of Ethics. Those affected include Nkabane, Parliament members, SETA boards, and figures like ANC leaders. This matters now as she holds the role of ANC deputy chief whip after her firing last year.
The complaint started with Democratic Alliance MP Karabo Khakhau. He serves on the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training. The Ethics Committee probe found Nkabane failed to oversee SETA board chair appointments properly. Her advisor, Asisipho Solani, handled the recruitment and selection panel instead.
Nkabane appointed ANC-linked people to those chairs. One was the son of ANC Chairperson Gwede Mantashe. She also lied to Parliament about an advisory structure picking candidates. Members she named, like Advocate Terry Motau, denied any role in it. The committee confirmed these facts through its investigation.
The Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interest widened the probe. Nkabane blamed her advisor for the issues. President Cyril Ramaphosa fired her from the executive in July last year. Parliament records show this followed her appearance there.
She now serves as ANC deputy chief whip. Political parties disagree on whether she should still explain the SETA board issues. An “ALSO READ” note highlights this split.
The irregularities hurt governance standards. Nkabane’s actions fell short of what executives must do. The committee made this clear in its findings.
It did not suggest suspension. Instead, it ordered a formal public apology. It also issued a reprimand.
Nkabane must make the apology soon. Debate continues among parties on her accountability. Her Parliament role adds to the focus.
Follow the topic timeline for updates on this case.
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