City Press reports that the Public Protector (PP), Busisiwe Mkhwebane, has launched an investigation into the SA Council for Educators (Sace), which is the professional body for teachers.
This follows allegations of financial mismanagement and nepotism. Two months ago, Mkhwebane’s investigators sent a list of 20 questions to Sace chairperson Veronica Hofmeester – who is also the vice-president of the SA Democratic Teachers’ Union (Sadtu) – asking for answers and documents relating to allegations that unqualified officials were appointed to positions that were not advertised. PP spokesperson, Oupa Segalwe, confirmed the investigation, saying it was still “in its early stages” and was focused on the alleged conduct of long-standing Sace CEO Rej Brijraj, who retired last month, and Sace. When asked about the allegations, Brijraj commented: “It could be that (a) small group of angry staff has been going all over the place to make malicious and defamatory allegations.” He added: “We have rebellious staff – not a significant group – that has been finding fault with the council and wants to gain leverage so that the council accedes to their demands.”
- Read this report by Msindisi Fengu in full at News24
Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page