Simelane appears before ANC's Integrity Commission over VBS saga

This stems from a R575,000 loan she received from Gundo Wealth Solutions during her time as Polokwane Mayor.

The commission, which serves as the ANC’s accountability mechanism, will determine whether Simelane can continue in her roles as minister and NEC member, in line with the party’s "step aside" rule.

The rule compels ANC members facing allegations of wrongdoing to step down from party structures.

"The Integrity Commission serves as a crucial accountability mechanism of the organisation,which has a process that allows members to state their case based on facts, in order to preserve the integrity of its members and of the ANC.

Please note that the meeting will be held virtually and it is not open to the public, and the ANC will communicate any developments in due course," said ANC spokesperson Zuko Godlimpi.

During a recent appearance before the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development in Parliament, Simelane denied any wrongdoing and pledged full cooperation with all inquiries.

While she acknowledged receiving a commercial loan from Gundo Wealth Solutions, Simelane maintained that she had no improper or financial relationship with any fixer connected to the VBS scandal.

When opposition MPs raised concerns about a conflict of interest, Simelane assured that the ongoing investigations related to VBS would not create such a conflict.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is also expected to weigh in on the matter but has requested more time and space before making any decisions.

ALSO READ