NSFAS Corruption Report Refused By OUTA

NSFAS Corruption Report Refused By OUTA. In a bold move demonstrating unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has made it clear that they will not retract their damning report implicating Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Blade Nzimande, and National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board chairperson Ernest Khosa in corruption. Despite facing pressure and threats of legal action, OUTA remains steadfast in its mission to expose alleged malfeasance.

NSFAS Corruption Report Refused By OUTA

It has been reported that the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) will not retract its report involving the Minister of Higher Education, Blade Nzimande and the Chairman of the NSFAS board. Despite demands for retraction and threats of legal action, this continues.

Controversial Report

The controversy stems from a report released by OUTA in January 2024, which raised serious allegations regarding the involvement of Minister Nzimande and Chairperson Khosa in corrupt activities. Specifically, the report suggested that both individuals received kickbacks in connection with the awarding of a lucrative tender aimed at facilitating the Direct NSFAS allowance payment system.

Response from Implicated Parties

In response to the allegations, Minister Nzimande and Chairperson Khosa vehemently denied any wrongdoing. However, in a move perhaps aimed at allowing for a thorough investigation, Khosa voluntarily opted to take a 30-day leave of absence from his position at NSFAS.

Legal Threats and OUTA Position

Despite OUTA’s report being based on evidence obtained from leaked voice recordings and other sources, Khosa’s legal representatives issued a letter demanding the retraction of the report and its removal from OUTA’s platform. They argued that Khosa was not afforded the opportunity to respond to the findings, citing a violation of his dignity and principles of fairness.

However, OUTA’s Executive Director, Advocate Stefanie Fick, firmly defended the organization’s actions, asserting that as a civil activist group, OUTA is not obligated to seek the approval of implicated parties before publishing such reports. Fick emphasized the strong public interest in uncovering potential corruption and highlighted the evidence-backed nature of their findings.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

In the face of threats of legal action, OUTA remains resolute in its stance. Fick expressed OUTA’s willingness to meet with Khosa to evaluate any additional evidence, provided that all information would be shared with law enforcement agencies involved in ongoing investigations. Additionally, OUTA reiterated its commitment to defending against any legal challenges, asserting the validity of their report and the importance of their role in promoting transparency and accountability.

Conclusion

The refusal of OUTA to retract its NSFAS corruption report underscores the organization’s unwavering dedication to uncovering and exposing alleged wrongdoing, regardless of the pressure or threats it may face. As the investigation unfolds, the public eagerly awaits further developments, hopeful for a resolution that upholds the principles of justice and integrity.