Tebogo Khaas, Chairperson of Public Interest SA, today issued a scathing condemnation of former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, whose tumultuous tenure continues to mar South Africa’s constitutional democracy. "No individual has caused more harm to the office of the Public Protector than Busisiwe Mkhwebane," Khaas remarked as he reminded the public about his previous writings on Mkhwebane. "Her actions have systematically undermined the credibility of this vital institution, and her disgraceful conduct—both in and out of office—has been a betrayal of her constitutional mandate."
The statement follows explosive revelations in Parliament that Public Protector CEO Thandi Sibanyoni has been receiving threats over Mkhwebane’s disputed R10 million gratuity. According to Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka, Sibanyoni was sent chilling messages, threatening her children if the payment, which the courts have already deemed "absurd" due to Mkhwebane’s impeachment for incompetence and misconduct, was not made. The threats are linked to Mkhwebane’s husband, MK Party MP David Skosana, further exposing the deeply troubling conduct of those within Mkhwebane’s inner circle.
Khaas further expressed alarm at the broader implications of Mkhwebane’s continued presence in Parliament. "It is beyond comprehension that an impeached individual, found unfit to hold the office of Public Protector, now uses her position as a member of Parliament to attempt to subvert constitutional processes and intimidate those who uphold the rule of law."
The recent parliamentary debacle, where Mkhwebane attempted to downplay the serious threats made against Sibanyoni, highlights the extent to which Mkhwebane has abandoned any pretence of upholding constitutional principles. Her disregard for ethical standards is made stark by her demand for a gratuity, even after her dismissal for gross incompetence.
Khaas expressed particular concern about the damage Mkhwebane has inflicted on whistleblowers and officials within the Office of the Public Protector (OPP). "It is tragic that the institution meant to protect the vulnerable has, under Mkhwebane, become a tool for victimisation, harassment, and intimidation. The threats against the CEO, the victimisation of whistleblowers, and her contempt for judicial rulings show a complete disregard for the rule of law."
Public Interest SA echoes the calls for Parliament and the judiciary to take firm action against Mkhwebane’s continuous misuse of her position to further her personal vendettas. "This is not just about one individual. It is about protecting the integrity of our democratic institutions from those who seek to weaponise them for self-serving purposes," Khaas said.
Mkhwebane’s history of disparaging judges who rule against her, her racialised attacks on social media, and her husband’s threats of violence only serve to deepen the crisis of credibility she brought not only to the Public Protector’s Office but now Parlament. This behavior cannot be tolerated.
In closing, Khaas warned: "The damage Mkhwebane has done will not be repaired by punitive costs or her eventual disgrace. What we need is a firm reaffirmation of constitutional values and accountability. The time has come for Parliament to ensure that individuals like Mkhwebane are held to account, not allowed to fester and rot the very foundations of our democracy. She and her ilk continue to disgrace Parliament."
Public Interest SA remains committed to ensuring accountability and constitutional integrity in South Africa’s democratic institutions.
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Issued by:
Public Interest SA
12 October 2024