Ministry of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation clarifies the appointment of Special Advisors
The Ministry of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation has noted several media reports relating to the appointment of ministerial advisors.
We wish to reiterate that in terms of government rules and regulations, Members of the Executive Authority are entitled to special advisors and the Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation has exercised that prerogative by appointing Mr Mo Shaik and Adv Menzi Simelane.
As required, the Minister consulted with and sought approval from the Minister for the Public Service and Administration (MPSA) and his concurrence was received.
In considering an appointment of a Special Advisor, qualifications, experience and skills amongst others are taken into consideration. Therefore, both appointees are suitably qualified for the positions they hold and their appointments are regulated and prescribed for in the Public Service Act, 1994. Both appointments have been duly ratified by the Ministry of Public Service and Administration as per requirements.
The responsibilities of the two advisors are in line with the Public Service Act, 1994 (section 12A) and they include providing advice to the Minister to enable her to execute her duties such as the development of policies to meet the service delivery needs of all South Africans, which in this case are the provision of water and decent sanitation as well as ensuring that every citizen has access to decent shelter over his or her head.
Minister Sisulu has utmost confidence in the abilities of her two special advisors, both of whom were appointed in terms of the applicable legislation and policies of government.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is aware of the applicability of Section 12 A since some of its members hold Executive positions in Provincial government. The DA member of the Portfolio Committee is urged to familiarize herself with the applicable legislation before embarrassing her other colleagues. Any attempt aimed at derailing the Minister from responding to the pressing and urgent needs of our people will not succeed.
Enqueries
Makhosini Mgitywa (head of Communication and spokesperson)
Cell: 060 564 0462
E-mail: makhosini.mgitywa@dhs.gov.za
