ActionSA opens corruption case against minister Sisisi Tolashe

ActionSA has intensified its action against Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe, opening a criminal case and filing multiple ethics complaints over allegations she failed to declare luxury vehicles.

ActionSA Member of Parliament Dereleen James confirmed that the party has taken three steps against Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe.

She said ActionSA has opened a criminal corruption case, filed a complaint with the Public Protector, and submitted a formal complaint to Parliament’s Ethics Committee.

The party argues that Tolashe may have breached the Executive Members’ Ethics Act, as well as parliamentary rules that require full disclosure of gifts and interests.

Allegations over luxury vehicles linked to Sisisi Tolashe

The case centres on two BAIC X55 SUVs, each valued at about R1 million, which Tolashe allegedly received from Chinese officials.

In her response to parliamentary questions, Tolashe said she donated the vehicles to the ANC Women’s League, which she leads.

However, both the African National Congress and the ANC Women’s League have denied receiving the cars.

ActionSA raises concerns over transparency

James said the allegations point to possible corruption and ethical breaches, particularly around failure to declare gifts.

“It will be for corruption. We believe these gifts could be seen as gratification. We are not sure for what, and that is what the investigation will reveal,” she said.

She added that the party would not allow any minister to undermine a department responsible for vulnerable citizens.

James said authorities will now investigate whether Tolashe benefited personally from the vehicles and whether she misled Parliament.