DA hails reversal of controversial SETA board appointments as victory for accountability and meritocracy
DA spokesperson Karabo Khakhau welcomed the withdrawals SETA appointments, hoping a new revised list.
Image: DA/X
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed the withdrawal of several ANC cadres, including individuals from KwaZulu-Natal and Buyambo Mantashe, the son of ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe, from the boards of various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
On Thursday, Higher Education Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, announced that she would be withdrawing the appointments.
This follows enormous pressure from the MPs, including the citizens, who questioned the legality of the move.
DA national spokesperson, Karabo Khakhau, had earlier revealed the list of SETA board appointees, prompting widespread speculation around potential nepotism and political patronage.
In a statement on Friday, the blue party said the decision by Nkabane marked a step in the right direction and showed that the pressure applied by the DA and civil society has not been in vain.
'We are pleased that the Minister has finally come to her senses and recognised that SETA boards cannot and must not be treated as extensions of ANC patronage networks.
'SETAs play a vital role in developing skills and driving economic empowerment in South Africa.
'These institutions are meant to serve the interests of all South Africans, particularly young people who are desperate for opportunities and skills to enter the job market – not to serve as rewards for political loyalty,' Khakhau said.
She has reiterated her party's call these entities must be free from political interference, urging the minister to ensure that future appointments were made based on merit, experience.
'The mistakes of the past must not be repeated,' she added.
Khakhau said, 'We look forward to reviewing the new list of appointees and will continue to monitor the process to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability'.
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Meanwhile, opposition parties such as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the MK Party have also claimed credit for the Minister's decision.
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