Disciplinary action taken against officials at Master’s Office

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is taking disciplinary action against officials working at the Master's Office, following several allegations of misconduct and maladministration. This is according to Justice Minister Thembi Simelane who was answering questions in the National Council of Provinces on Wednesday. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) had conducted an investigation into the Master's Office and submitted a report to the department in April this year, implicating some 14 officials in alleged illegal activity. 'Of the 14, three are no longer employed by the department which means disciplinary action couldn't be taken but the department is looking to other mechanisms and measures to ensure that accountability is taken. The 11 employees include one senior manager and 10 middle managers and junior staff members. 'The department addresses, as per the SIU recommendations, the allegations included among others, misconduct, intimidation and threats, contravention of section two of the Estates Administration and the contravention of Section 386 of the Companies Act,' Simelane said. The Minister said in addition to the SIU findings, the department took 'proactive measures by commissioning an internal forensic and internal audit unit' to investigate the behaviour of several officials. 'These investigations were initiated to address serious allegations that had surfaced, including claims of misconduct, impropriety and breaches of the public code. 'The forensic and audit unit signifies our commitment as a department to maintaining high standards of integrity and accountability. By launching this investigation, the department sought to ensure comprehensive examination,' she said. Of the 14 implicated officials, the following actions have been taken: An official has been found guilty and dismissed. Another official resigned days before their disciplinary hearing could be held. An official was found guilty and was given a three-month suspension without pay and additional charges h ave been filed. The disciplinary processes against the remaining eight are expected to be concluded by the end of the year. 'The resignation does not prevent the department from proceeding with other potential consequence management-related proceedings that we are looking at taking,' Simelane added. During a media briefing last month, she said cleaning up the Master's Office was a key priority for the department with reforms undertaken at those offices. 'These reforms are part of our broader efforts to combat corruption and improve service delivery within the justice system. The turnaround strategy for the Master's Offices includes implementing the SIU's recommendations and enhancing oversight mechanisms to prevent future misconduct. 'We are focused on improving efficiency and customer service at all Master's service points through strategic collaboration with key stakeholders. Restoring public confidence in the Master's Offices is a top priority,' Simelane said. Source: South African Government News Agency