By Johannah Malogadihlare
The SA Social Security Agency CEO Busisiwe Memela-Khambula has been placed on precautionary suspension pending investigation into her appointment.
Social Development Minister Nokuzola Tolashe said on Wednesday that the suspension was prompted by the need to conduct an investigation without hindrance or interference, given Memela-Khanmbula’s position as the CEO.
The office of the Public Protector had raised a myriad of serious issues relating to the CEO’s appointment, and this had prompted the minister to take action.
The minister said the suspension was important to protect Memela-Khambula’s “dignity and integrity”. She praised the CEO for the “humility” she demonstrated when being told to step aside.
Memela-Khambula would be on full pay during the course of the investigation.
The minister noted that all decisions taken regarding the agency was to ensure it delivered on its mandate.
“Whilst we deal with a lot of challenges facing SASSA, we want take decisive decisions that will ensure that our work is transparent, effective and efficient, and we have an organisation that will assist in fighting hunger and poverty in our country,” Tolashe said in a statement.
Memela-Khambula was appointed as CEO in 2020 to oversee the monthly social grant of 10.9 million south Africans.
SASSA Gauteng regional executive manager Themba Matlou is the new acting CEO.
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