‘Democratic accountability’ – ANC on SETA board withdrawal
The African National Congress (ANC) has expressed support for the decision to withdraw the appointments of board chairs at the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA), describing it as a victory for integrity, discipline, and democratic accountability.
Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane reversed the recent board appointments following public concern over the fairness of the selection process.
The original appointees included ANC national chair and Cabinet member Gwede Mantashe’s son, Buyambo Mantashe; former KwaZulu-Natal premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube; and ANC Johannesburg deputy regional secretary Loyiso Masuku.
Prior to her current role, Nkabane served as Gwede Mantashe's deputy in the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy.
The appointments provoked significant backlash, culminating in a heated parliamentary session on Wednesday.
Economic Freedom Fighters MP Sihle Lonzi was removed after challenging Buyambo Mantashe’s appointment to the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MERSETA) board.
In a statement, the ANC said it would “not learn lessons on accountability from those who disrespect democratic processes and instead use policy discussions for populist purposes”.
“What we have witnessed is not their victory — it is the maturity and discipline of ANC-led governance on full display.
“It is precisely the kind of leadership envisioned in our programme of organisational renewal — responsive, transparent, and anchored in public service, not personal entitlement. It was a decision of conscience and accountability, made by a Minister committed to transparency and good governance.”
The ANC said it has assured Nkabane that the renewed appointment process will adhere to fairness, transparency, and compliance with the Skills Development Act.
“We are satisfied that all due diligence will be observed during recruitment, and that all candidates will be appointed in accordance with the principles of merit, representative, good governance, and public accountability. As a movement, we remain committed to ensuring that such critical public processes reflect the highest standards of ethical leadership and institutional integrity.”
Nkabane has since launched a new seven-day nomination period with a renewed focus on transparency, merit-based selection, and inclusive representation.
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