Minister Chikunga Addresses Nepotism Claims

What the Allegations Say

Recent media reports claimed that Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga helped family members and close associates get jobs in her office, even when they did not meet the required qualifications. The Public Service Commission (PSC) is now looking into these accusations.

Specific Cases Under Review

Chief of Staff Promotion

Zandile Mthembu, currently Chief of Staff, was reportedly moved to a chief director role dealing with international relations, stakeholder relations and capacity building. Critics say she lacks the minimum experience needed for that position.

Assistant Parliamentary Liaison Officer

Nokwanda Mndzebele, said to be a relative of the minister, works as an assistant parliamentary liaison officer. There are suggestions she may be considered for a higher post—Parliament and Cabinet Support—in the Office of the Director‑General.

Governance and Compliance Role

Thandi Mpondo, who previously served as a parliamentary liaison officer in the minister’s office, resigned after rumors spread that she might be removed. The PSC is checking whether she was being lined up for a director post overseeing youth rights governance and compliance.

Household Aide and Driver Appointments

Monica Masukunya, linked to Deputy Minister Steve Letsike and working as a household aide, is alleged to be slated for promotion to a food aide role. Meanwhile, Sithembiso Monyai, who did not originally qualify for a driver position in Letsike’s office, reportedly got the job.

Personal Assistant Promotion

Lesego Itumeleng, the minister’s personal assistant, is said to be earmarked for an administration support and coordination role.

Minister’s Response

Through spokesperson Cassius Selala, Minister Chikunga denied all accusations, calling them “false and misleading.” She stressed that she has not interfered with any hiring process to favour relatives or friends.

Legal Framework Governing Public Service Jobs

Constitutional Principles

Section 195 of the South African Constitution requires public administration to follow democratic values, including professional ethics, fairness, impartiality, transparency and accountability.

Public Service Act and Regulations

The Public Service Act, 1994 together with the Public Service Regulations, 2016 set out clear rules for recruitment, selection and appointment. These rules demand that jobs be filled on merit, equity, fairness and transparency, and they include safeguards against nepotism, conflicts of interest and undue influence.

Commitment to Cooperation

Minister Chikunga welcomed the PSC investigation and promised full cooperation. Her department reiterated its dedication to transparent, ethical governance and compliance with all laws that regulate public administration.

Conclusion

While the PSC continues to examine the claims of nepotism and political favouritism in the offices of Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga and Deputy Minister Steve Letsike, the minister maintains that all appointments follow legal procedures. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether any breaches occurred and what steps, if any, are needed to restore public confidence in the integrity of the public service.