Foundation launches investigation after whistle-blowers lift lid on alleged misappropriation of funds
THE NELSON Mandela Foundation (NMF) has confirmed that an investigation has been launched following claims that its chief executive, Sello Hatang, and chief operating officer, Limpho Monyamane, misused company credit cards and abused their positions of power.
The chairperson of the NMF, Professor Njabulo Ndebele, initiated the investigation on December 15 after receiving an e-mail on December 14 from unidentified staff members.
The foundation said it took the allegations seriously and was committed to ensuring a fair and proper outcome.
“Interviews are currently being conducted with management, staff and a small number of service providers to ensure all sides of the story are heard. In line with this, the outcome of the investigation will be made public once the process is completed and the investigative report has been considered by the board. This will include details of the investigation itself, how and by whom it was undertaken, and any recommendations that may be made,“ the foundation said.
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Ndebele said law firm Bowman Gilfillan Inc was looking into the matter.
He said the extent of mismanagement, according to an internal source, had gone from the foundation paying millions to a “donor”, instead of receiving payment, to using corporate credit cards for personal purchases at fast-food restaurants, bookstores, hardware and sporting goods stores.
