Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has denied recent reports that claimed she discussed a controversial loan with President Cyril Ramaphosa before her appointment.
The reports suggested Simelane had told the ANC’s Integrity Commission that Ramaphosa was aware of her R575,000 loan from Gundo Wealth Solutions, a company linked to corruption allegations.
According to Sunday World, Simelane was questioned about the loan during her virtual appearance before the commission last week, where she was asked to explain the circumstances surrounding the transaction.
The publication also claimed that Ramaphosa had questioned her about the loan prior to appointing her as Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in August 2021.
However, Tsekiso Machike, spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, refuted these claims, labeling the article “devoid of truth.” Machike stated that the report misrepresented Simelane’s appearance before the Integrity Commission and was unfair to both her and Ramaphosa.
“The article is misleading and does not reflect the minister’s actual submission to the ANC Integrity Commission,” Machike added.
The controversy stems from Simelane’s alleged involvement with Gundo Wealth Solutions during her time as mayor of Polokwane, where she reportedly obtained the loan to purchase a Sandton coffee shop through the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has since called for her resignation, citing discrepancies in the loan agreement and concerns over its authenticity, particularly regarding conflicting payment dates and suggestions that the document was backdated.
DA spokesperson Glynnis Breytenbach argued that the inconsistencies surrounding the loan raise serious questions about Simelane’s integrity.
The party has also urged Ramaphosa to take decisive action, stating that Simelane’s continued role in government undermines confidence in her ability to uphold the justice system.
ALSO READ : Robber Breaks In, Does Chores, and Leaves a Message for the Owner
