Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Jóhni Steenkamp
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is outraged by the reckless decision to appoints Ms Morufa Moloto, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) despite her being currently out on bail for serious corruption charges. This appointment — approved by the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) — shows just how far the ANC government is prepared to go in turning a blind eye to corruption.
The DA demands:
- The immediate suspension of the appointed CFO until the criminal case is resolved.
- A full investigation into how this person was shortlisted, interviewed, and given the job.
- That MEC Bitsa Lenkopane appear before the Portfolio Committee to explain how this scandal happened and what will be done to fix it.
It is shocking that someone facing criminal charges related to corruption was deemed a suitable custodian of public funds in a province already crippled by mismanagement, looting, and economic decay. This move insults the people of the North West and destroys any trust left in provincial leadership.
According to documents given to the Portfolio Committee, the NWPTB insists the hiring process followed all the rules, including the PFMA, Recruitment and Selection Policy, and that checks were done. But these so-called checks clearly failed — or were ignored — because the simple fact is this: the new CFO is out on bail for corruption.
If this information was missed, it shows shocking incompetence. If it was known, then it is even worse — a deliberate decision to put someone under criminal investigation in charge of taxpayers’ money. Either way, the excuses given to the Committee are empty and do not explain how this was allowed to happen.
How can this province — struggling with poverty and broken services — afford to hand control of its finances to someone accused of stealing public funds? This is not just poor judgement — it is open negligence, and a clear sign that corruption is not only tolerated but welcomed.
This appointment is yet another sign that the ANC is destroying ethical governance in the North West. Public office must not be a hiding place for the corrupt.
The people of this province deserve leaders who are honest, accountable, and focused on service delivery — not more cadres recycling each other into top jobs no matter what crimes they face.
The DA will keep fighting to expose this disgrace and ensure it is reversed.