Tolashe adviser denies misconduct, romance claims

NGWAKO Kgatla, special adviser to Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe, has denied allegations of misconduct and an alleged romantic relationship with the minister, calling the claims a politically motivated smear campaign.

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

Speaking publicly for the first time amid a growing media storm, Kgatla said the accusations — including claims of holding dual government positions and receiving two salaries ~ are being pushed by individuals within the department seeking to undermine efforts to expose corruption.

“Since we came into the department, we found corruption. Some officials were doing business with the state. We have uncovered a lot of rot,’ Kgatla said. “Now we're waking up in the media, and stories are being planted by our own officials.”