Suspended Public Protector Mkhwebane Seeks Chairperson’s Recusal Amid Bribery Scandal Allegations

By Alan Peterson

Published: July 14, 2023 | 4:01 PM GMT

…By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media. Suspended Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, is determined to fight her suspension until the end, even with only three months left in office.

In a recent application, Mkhwebane, represented by Advocate Dali Mpofu, has requested the recusal of Section 194 Committee Chairperson Richard Dyantyi.

The grounds for recusal stem from Dyantyi’s alleged involvement in a bribery scandal.

Implications of Dyantyi’s Implication in a Bribery Scandal

Advocate Dali Mpofu’s application highlights that various political parties, including the EFF, ATM, and UDM, have also called for Dyantyi’s recusal.

Dyantyi, along with ANC Chief Whip Penny Majodina and the late ANC MP Tina Joemat-Pettersson, has been accused of attempting to extort R600,000 from Mkhwebane’s husband. The alleged purpose of the bribe was to influence a favorable outcome in the inquiry.

Biased Proceedings and Inherent Unfairness

The application emphasizes that Mkhwebane’s legal team has repeatedly warned the Committee about the biased and unfair nature of the proceedings.

It is alleged that the majority of the members, composed of the ANC and the DA, had a predetermined outcome.

The application further asserts that the ANC Chief Whip, Penny Majodina, who is implicated in the extortion allegations, appears to remotely control the proceedings.

Grounds for Recusal Outlined

Advocate Dali Mpofu lists seven grounds for Dyantyi’s recusal in the application.

These include allegations of bribery, corruption, and extortion, as well as Dyantyi’s involvement in a pending Parliamentary Ethics Committee investigation and a police investigation.

Disparaging media statements and interviews, the continuation of proceedings despite Mkhwebane’s lack of legal representation, the role of Tina Joemat-Pettersson as a committee member, and the role of Penny Majodina as ANC Chief Whip are also highlighted.

Continuing Legal Battle for Mkhwebane

Despite her suspension and limited time remaining in office, Busisiwe Mkhwebane remains committed to challenging her suspension and fighting for a fair process.

The application to recuse Richard Dyantyi is just one step in her ongoing legal battle.

About Alan Peterson

Alan Peterson is a talented writer who creates engaging and informative content for TDPel Media. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Alan has established himself as a respected authority in his field. He is a dedicated professional who is committed to providing readers with accurate and up-to-date news and information. Alan’s ability to distill complex ideas into easily digestible pieces has earned him a loyal following among TDPel Media’s readers. In addition to his writing work, Alan is an avid reader and enjoys exploring new topics to expand his knowledge and expertise. He lives in Scotlant, United Kingdom.