Dismissed Higher Education Minister Dr Nobuhle Nkabane responds to her removal and the controversy over SETA board appointments.

Former Minister Nkabane Responds to Dismissal

Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, the former Minister of Higher Education, Training, and Innovation, has spoken out for the first time since her removal by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Her dismissal formed part of a wider cabinet reshuffle aimed at restoring public trust in leadership following allegations of political interference and irregular appointments within SETA boards.

Contents

Former Minister Nkabane Responds to Dismissal
Ramaphosa Exercises Constitutional Powers
The SETA Board Appointment Controversy
ANC Links in the Appointments
Parliamentary Fallout and Possible Summons
A Professional Reputation on the Line
Missed Opportunity to Clear Her Name
Buti Manamela Steps In as Minister
MPs Demand Answers
Nkabane’s Political Future: A Crossroads

In a calm but firm tone, Nkabane told eNCA she had accepted the decision, stating: “All signs were there that some forces on the ground wanted me out of the system.” She confirmed receiving a call from President Ramaphosa while en route to a scheduled parliamentary portfolio meeting in Cape Town.

Ramaphosa Exercises Constitutional Powers

Referencing Section 91.2 of the South African Constitution, Nkabane acknowledged the president’s authority to dismiss ministers at his discretion. “I accept the dismissal by the President, and I take it positively,” she said, highlighting the experience as a privilege and noting that she had become “a better version” of herself after serving in the department.

Explore Section 91.2 of the Constitution here

The SETA Board Appointment Controversy

At the heart of Nkabane’s dismissal lies a scandal involving the appointment of controversial SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) board chairpersons. Questions arose after Parliament was told an “independent panel” led by Advocate Terry Motau oversaw the appointments—a claim that has since been refuted by all the named panelists.

This includes Nkabane’s own chief of staff, Nelisiwe Semane, and her adviser Asisipho Solani, who both denied any involvement or knowledge of such a panel.

ANC Links in the Appointments

The appointments sparked concern due to the involvement of ANC-linked individuals, including Buyambo Mantashe—son of Minister Gwede Mantashe—and former KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube. MPs criticised the process as “misleading” and lacking transparency, which intensified scrutiny on Nkabane’s role.

Parliamentary Fallout and Possible Summons

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education found no formal panel had been constituted for the SETA appointments, contradicting Nkabane’s parliamentary statement. This prompted speculation that Parliament may summon her as a private citizen to account for the decisions made under her leadership.

A Professional Reputation on the Line

“What is disturbing,” Nkabane added, “is the perception that I lied in Parliament.” The academic-turned-politician insists she had prepared documents and appointment letters to prove she followed due process. “I am a professional. I am an academic. There’s no way I can risk my reputation by lying,” she said.

Missed Opportunity to Clear Her Name

Nkabane expressed disappointment at being dismissed just before she was due to present her evidence in Parliament. “I was looking forward to this day to clear my name,” she stated. “But when the dust has settled, I will get an opportunity to do so.”

Buti Manamela Steps In as Minister

Ramaphosa has since appointed Buti Manamela, one of Nkabane’s deputies, as the new Minister of Higher Education and Training. Meanwhile, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube will now serve as the Deputy Minister, showing a new era for the department amid public calls for integrity and transparency.

Learn more about Buti Manamela’s profile

MPs Demand Answers

Despite her removal, MPs are not letting the matter rest. Some have indicated they want to question Nkabane further, especially concerning her role in appointing ANC-connected individuals. This continued scrutiny could bring her back into the parliamentary spotlight, even as a private citizen.

Nkabane’s Political Future: A Crossroads

While she remains calm and composed in her public remarks, questions linger about Nkabane’s future within the ANC and national politics. Will she fight to restore her image, or retreat into the academic world from which she came? Time and public opinion will tell.