The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has welcomed the Public Protector’s report clearing Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane and former Home Affairs Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi of any wrongdoing in the Bulembu Airport matter.
The investigation followed complaints lodged by African Transformation Movement (ATM) leaders Vuyo Zungula and Elias Muller, who alleged maladministration, improper conduct, and violations of immigration laws during the 2023 visit by United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Concerns were also raised about a R20 million donation from the UAE government, which Mabuyane was accused of accepting without following due process.
However, the Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka found that "these allegations were unsubstantiated" and confirmed that all necessary legal and financial procedures were followed.
In a statement, Bhisho spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie clarified that R5 million of the donation was used for minor airport upgrades such as repairing runway lights, repainting markings, and clearing overgrown vegetation.
“The donation in kind for minor airport upgrades was duly declared in the audited Annual Financial Statements of the department responsible, in line with Treasury regulations,” Rantjie said.
Premier Mabuyane welcomed the findings, saying the actions taken were intended to strengthen foreign relations and promote investment in the province.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to transparency and inclusive economic growth.
Meanwhile, ATM Spokesperson, Zama Ntshona said they believed they had a strong case, "especially on the matter of the declaration of a international port of entry for the country. We believe the consultation and gazetting was not done the way it should have been."
Ntshona said they were studying the reasons why the Public Protector "would exonerate an individual who should be held accountable."
We are handing the matter over to our legal team for advice on how we move forward." He concluded.
