What started as a routine review of Parliament’s ethics records has turned into a bit of a headache for South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile.
A formal complaint lodged back in March 2025 has led to findings that he failed to declare a gift—a diamond—his wife received, and now a parliamentary committee wants him to face the consequences.
Ethics Committee Says Mashatile Crossed the Line
The Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests recently wrapped up its investigation and concluded that Mashatile breached the Code of Ethical Conduct.
Specifically, they say he didn’t report a valuable gift from businessman Louis Liebenberg in the confidential section of the parliamentary financial interests register, as required by law.
Mashatile had argued that he intended to declare the gift once he had a formal valuation of the diamond.
But the committee disagreed, pointing to rules that clearly state MPs must declare all gifts from immediate family members up front—even if the value isn’t known yet.
A Fine and a Formal Reprimand on the Cards
For this first-time violation, the committee is recommending a R10,000 fine and a formal reprimand in the National Assembly.
They emphasised that transparency is non-negotiable when it comes to maintaining public trust in Parliament.
The report further underlines that all MPs are held to the same ethical standards and that the disclosure system exists to protect the integrity of the legislative process.
What Exactly Did Mashatile Declare?
As part of an annual process, Parliament recently released the 2025 register of financial interests for all Members of Parliament.
It includes everything from property and shares to gifts, pensions, and travel.
And yes, the public is combing through it with eagle eyes.
When it comes to Paul Mashatile’s declarations, there are a few notable points.
Spotlight on That Constantia Mansion
One big highlight? A massive 4,000 square metre mansion in Constantia, Cape Town.
The house, reportedly worth R28.9 million, is listed under a company owned by his son-in-law, Nceba Nonkwelo.
The Hawks are reportedly investigating the financial origins of that purchase.
Alongside the Cape Town home, Mashatile also declared two more properties: one in Waterfall, Midrand (9,000 square metres), and another in Kelvin, Johannesburg (3,000 square metres).
A Peek Into the Gift List
According to the register, Mashatile didn’t receive much in terms of flashy personal financial perks.
Here’s a sample of what he did disclose under gifts and hospitality:
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A portrait of himself from the National Youth Development Agency (valued at around R3,000)
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An intricate silver dagger set from the Russian Prime Minister during a working visit
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Tea sets and glassware from Russian and Japanese diplomats
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A backpack, hoodie, and wine gifts from various events and visits
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A small display truck model and other decorative items from overseas trips
Still, no sign of the infamous diamond on that list—something the committee clearly didn’t overlook.
No Outside Jobs or Business Links
Interestingly, Mashatile has nothing to declare under outside employment, shares, partnerships, or consultancies.
He also doesn’t list any sponsored travel or income from rental properties.
The only investment-related income noted is from an Old Mutual unit trust.
Final Thoughts and What Comes Next
The full report on Mashatile’s ethics case is set to be published on Parliament’s website, and with public scrutiny growing, it’s likely this won’t be the last we hear about the Deputy President’s financial disclosures.
The committee’s stance is clear: if you’re in public office, every gift and benefit—no matter how big or small—must be properly declared.
The public is watching, and so is Parliament.