The standoff between the INSETA Board and Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has exposed deeper questions about governance, accountability and political interference within South Africa’s SETA sector.

Following the precautionary suspension of CEO Gugu Mkhize, the minister instructed the board to reinstate her. The board has refused, arguing that the Skills Development Act gives the minister no authority to override its suspension decision and warning that it may seek urgent court intervention if the directive is not withdrawn.

The board says reinstating Mkhize while an independent investigation is underway could compromise evidence, influence witnesses and undermine the integrity of the process.

This confrontation did not emerge overnight.

For years, we have raised concerns about governance failures, procurement practices and financial management at INSETA. We are currently challenging Mkhize’s reappointment in court, arguing that the process was procedurally flawed and failed to adequately address accountability concerns. The institution has also received qualified audit outcomes for five consecutive years, raising serious questions about financial controls and governance oversight.

At stake is more than the future of one executive. The outcome will help determine whether independent boards can act in the interests of good governance, or whether political intervention can override their decisions.

We believe South Africans deserve institutions that are accountable, transparent and free from political interference.

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