Denouncing the claims, spokesperson Thembile Nqabeni said they’re unsubstantiated and aimed at tarnishing Adv. Tumelo Phahlo’s reputation.

In the reports, he’s accused of having played a role in diverting Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) funds to the Khula Foundation, an organisation purportedly linked to family members.

Nqabeni rejected the claims that sparked calls for Phahlo to explain the foundation’s involvement and access to departmental funds. He called them “baseless”, and part of an ongoing effort over the past six months to undermine Phahlo’s position.

“Adv. Tumelo Jacob Phahlo runs a clean and ethical institution. Since his appointment as acting HOD, he has improved our audit outcomes from a qualified to an unqualified audit opinion.

“He’s a leader respected by employees, staff, and all departmental stakeholders. These allegations are groundless and malicious, aiming solely to damage his reputation.”

Free State Social Development spokesperson, Thembile Nqabeni. Photo: Facebook

Nqabeni challenged individuals or media outlets reporting on these allegations to present their evidence to law enforcement agencies if they believe any wrongdoing has occurred. The department has confidence in Phahlo’s integrity, he said and called on communities and departmental officials to remain calm.

Meanwhile, Free State Hawks spokesperson Christopher Singo said he could neither confirm nor deny an investigation into Phahlo or any individual in the Department of Social Development. “Our mandate does not allow us to confirm personal details of individuals under investigation unless formal charges have been filed and the individuals have appeared in court.”

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi