Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni’s absence from a crucial defence meeting has sparked outrage among MPs. The chairperson of the National Conventional Arms Control Committee (NCACC) was expected to attend the meeting of the Standing Committee on Friday to receive the armaments body’s annual report.
Opposition members were particularly incensed, having formally resolved that the meeting should be attended in person by the minister. Ntshavheni’s absence drew harsh criticism, particularly following a previous meeting where the committee expressed serious concerns about the NCACC’s performance in regulating the armaments trade.
Defence Meeting Controversy
DA MP Nicholas Gotsell was quick to challenge the proceedings, stating: “Until we know the reason why the minister is not here, we can’t adopt the agenda.” He highlighted the specific scheduling of the meeting to accommodate her presence. “This meeting was scheduled for 9am to 3pm specifically for the minister to be here in person,” said Gotsell.
EFF MP Carl Niehaus echoed this sentiment, accusing Ntshavheni of a “deliberate malicious non-compliance” and impact on the briefing on the body’s annual report. “The absence of the minister is a deliberate, malicious non-compliance on a clear indication we gave that we believe it is essential for the briefing of NCACC on its 2025 annual report for her to be present physically in this meeting,” said Niehaus.
Reasons for Absence
In her absence, Ntshavheni sent an apology letter citing an incorrect invitation format from the committee secretariat, which she claimed indicated the meeting would be virtual. “My office accordingly aligned my schedule based on this official notification,” she explained.
However, Committee Secretary Nandipha Maxhegwana countered, clarifying that two official invitations had been sent, both specifying that the meeting was to be held physically. ANC’s Pitso Noe attempted to interject in defence of Ntshavheni, urging that reasons for her absence should first be addressed.
Here are some key points from the meeting:
- Ntshavheni’s absence was seen as a deliberate attempt to avoid accountability
- The meeting was scheduled specifically for the minister to attend in person
- The committee expressed serious concerns about the NCACC’s performance in regulating the armaments trade
For more information on the NCACC and its role in regulating the armaments trade, visit the NCACC website. You can also read more about the meeting and the controversy surrounding Ntshavheni’s absence on News24.
