Minister Defends Car Hire Spending

Why the Hire Was Needed

No Department Vehicles Available

The Minister’s office does not yet have any official cars assigned for his use. Because the department’s fleet does not contain a vehicle that can be used for his travel, the only option was to hire cars through the normal procurement process.

Security Threat Assessment

At the start of his term in 2024 the South African Police Service (SAPS) carried out a threat assessment. It concluded that the Minister needs a larger security detail when moving between Pretoria and Cape Town. The Minister says he must follow SAPS’s professional judgment on this matter.

Responding to Parliamentary Questions

Cost‑Containment and Regulations

ActionSA MP Dereleen James asked whether an internal review had been done to check if the car‑hire spending was reasonable and in line with cost‑saving rules. The Minister replied that the hire was made through official procurement channels and follows National Treasury regulations and the department’s supply‑chain procedures. He added that the department has not labelled the expense as wasteful or irregular.

Comparing to Other Ministers

James pointed out that the Minister’s office spent R2.1 million on car hire in six months – about R350 000 per month – and asked how this could be justified while many artists, athletes and cultural workers struggle for support. The Minister explained that the high cost is not a preference but a direct result of not having department‑owned vehicles and the security requirements identified by SAPS.

Plans for Permanent Vehicles

Order Placed, Waiting for Delivery

Around June or July 2025 the Minister’s office placed an order for permanent ministry vehicles through the proper channels, after National Treasury released the approved vehicle list. He was told a month ago that the procurement was approved, but the vehicles have not yet arrived. He expects that once the cars are delivered, the need for hired vehicles will drop sharply or disappear altogether.

Minister’s Message on Public Funds

The Minister stressed that all transport spending is subject to the department’s usual oversight and financial controls. He said his office remains committed to using public money appropriately and in the public interest. He also noted that, compared with his private security arrangements before becoming minister, he has actually reduced the size of his convoy and the number of protection officers.

Conclusion

The Minister says the car‑hire costs are temporary and stem from two facts: the lack of assigned department vehicles and a security assessment that calls for extra protection. He believes that once the ordered official cars arrive, the hiring expense will end, allowing the department to redirect funds toward supporting sport, arts and culture programmes.