SAHRC CEO sacked over allegations of misconduct and inappropriate remarks

South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) CEO Vusumuzi Mkhize has been suspended for precautionary measures.

Details of the suspension were discussed at a meeting between the SAHRC and the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development on 1 November.

The portfolio committee referred to existing complaints about alleged mismanagement at the SAHRC, describing the working atmosphere as “toxic”.

Although a comprehensive report is still to be prepared by the committee, it confirmed that:

There were calls for Mkhize to be removed from office using Article 194 of the Constitution.

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The accusations center around an online meeting in which Mkhize is alleged to have made inappropriate remarks while his microphone was on.

“The committee heard that at a mixed meeting of the SAHRC, Mr Mkhize made some statements about the whites and the national unity government, unaware that he was not remaining silent,” he said. Parliament Communication Services (PCS).

Mkhize is also alleged to have attempted to have an official interim protocol drawn up by deleting the record.

Additionally, the portfolio committee heard complaints about the procurement, interference from Mkhize’s interview panel and issues with results management.

SAHRC media officer Wisani Baloyi confirmed Mkhize’s suspension CitizenHe stated that this was due to the alleged abuse.

“This matter is ongoing and the Commission is committed to bringing it to a prompt conclusion, with equal respect for the integrity of the process,” Baloyi said.

President and Commissioner under fire

Complaints regarding SAHRC chairperson Rev. Chris Nissen and Commissioner Philile Ntuli were also sent to the portfolio committee.

Nissen rejected the complaints against him, saying they were based on his former public life.

“It has been reviewed several times by various sectors and twice by Parliament and has never been found wanting,” the PCS explained, noting that no public complaints had been received during the review process.

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Commissioner Ntuli accused former commissioners of trying to remove him from office, claiming the complaints were political in nature.

“He now fears for his safety and the committee decided that the SAHRC should request a risk assessment from the security agencies,” PCS said.

Second case in two years

Article 194 of the Constitution deals with the dismissal of officials in Chapter 9 institutions and Mkhize is the second SAHRC executive to face such allegations in two years.

Acting CEO Chantal Kisoon in 2023, Allegations of racial slurs being used.

Portfolio committee chairperson Xola Nqola said Section 194 proceedings were not considered but gave a negative assessment of the SAHRC.

“You are an institution that is supposed to promote human rights, but now you are doing the exact opposite,” he said.

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