Transnet must interrogate Tshabalala qualifications claim

11 September 2014

Today, I will write to the Transet Group CEO, Brain Molefe,  requesting that Transnet launch an independent inquiry into whether Ms. Ellen Tshabalala, the current SABC Board Chairperson and Transnet board member, lied about her qualifications when applying for Transnet's Board. 

Ms. Tshabalala, appointed onto Transnet's Board in 2010, already faces a formal inquiry by Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Communications over allegations that she lied about her qualifications when she submitted her applications for the SABC in July last year.

In both her applications for the SABC and Transnet Boards, Ms. Tshabalala claimed to be in possession of a B.Com and diploma in labour relations from UNISA - A letter in the DA's possession from UNISA confirms that institution has no record of bestowing either qualification upon Ms. Tshabalala.

To date, Ms. Tshabalala has failed to provide evidence of qualifications to Parliament's legal unit - missing two deadlines for the submission on 11 August 2014 and on the 26 August 2014, after she herself requested an extension. 

There is now strong prima facie evidence that Ms. Tshabalala did indeed lie to Parliament about her qualifications during both board application processes. 

Officials at Transet, who are entrusted with ensuring the success of South Africa's port and transport services - key to ensuring our nation's economic growth and job creation for millions of unemployed South Africans - must be expected to act not only with upmost honesty but must also be the best possible individuals available to perform the job. 

Transnet must establish its investigation into the matter immediately.

Statement issued by Natasha Michael MP, DA Shadow Minister of Public Enterprises, September 11 2014

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