STAFF REPORTER
THE names of Duma Ndlovu, Freek Robinson, and Mike Horne, have been withdrawn from the list of 35 chosen recipients to receive respective Orders in a ceremony scheduled to take place on Friday, 28 April 2023 in Pretoria.
This decision was made following objections from various sectors of society and on the recommendation of the National Orders Advisory Council (NOAC), which has been accepted by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“Following objections from various sectors of society and on the recommendation of the National Orders Advisory Council (NOAC), President Ramaphosa has accepted the withdrawal of three nominees who were nominated to receive respective Orders in a ceremony scheduled to take place on Friday, 28 April 2023 in Pretoria. The three are Mr. Duma Ndlovu, Mr. Freek Robinson and Mr. Mike Horne from the list of 35 chosen recipients to be conferred,” Presidency said in a statement on Sunday.
“To uphold the integrity of National Orders, the NOAC will further adopt measures to strengthen the selection process. These measures include a workshop which will be undertaken by Council members at the end of April 2023. Timelines of the selection process will also be reviewed.”
Last week, the ANC Veterans League demanded Ndlovu’s name to be withdrawn from receiving a national order.
Ndlovu was due to receive the prestigious Order of Ikhamanga in Silver for his work in the TV and film industry.
But in a letter addressed to Presidency director-general Phindile Baleni, the league’s president Dr Snuki Zikalala said the television and film producer’s inclusion was tarnishing the reputation of the awards.
“The national working committee of the league’s national task team met earlier today to discuss the inclusion of Ndlovu as a recipient.
“They expressed dismay and deep concern at his inclusion since it was alleged in the Zondo commission deliberations that he was involved in matters that led to the debilitation and capture of the South African Revenue Services,” Zikalala said.
Former partner at Bain SA, Athol Williams, told the State Capture Commission that Bain paid R3.6 million a year to two performing artists for strategic advice on procurement and introduction to political leaders.
According to Williams, Ambro-Bright, a company that was co-owned by film producer Duma Ka-Ndlovu and musician Mandla KaNozulu, received the highest fee, which was usually reserved for former CEOs and ex-public officials, to give advice.
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