Members of the press are hereby advised that effective immediately, Minister Nathi Mthethwa has instituted an independent investigation into Robben Island Museum (RIM).
Minister Mthethwa’s decision follows consultations with the Ex-Political Prisoners Association (EPPA) - an entity that comprises those who were once prisoners of the world renowned prison Robben Island- during the course of the struggle for liberation. The EPPA had approached the Ministry presenting a host of allegations against RIM Management and the board. Upon enquiry to RIM, which presented its own counter allegations against EPPA, Minister Mthethwa arrived at the conclusion to immediately launch this investigation. The EPPA had also called for the immediate dissolution of the RIM Board and the resignation of the museum’s Chief Executive Officer.
“The allegations made by the Ex-Political Prisoners Association against the Robben Island Museum Board and Management are grave in nature. These allegations are primarily centred on issues of Governance, Nepotism and Corruption. Worthy to note, is that upon being presented with these allegations, RIM leadership subsequently made its own counter-allegations against the EPPA. The counter-allegations made were also brought to the attention of the leadership of the EPPA.
I have considered and consulted at length on both cases presented to me by each party. It is on this basis that I have decided on the immediate course of action that is an independent probe. Mindful of the seriousness of the allegations that have been made by the EPPA against RIM leadership, in the interests of natural justice it is of utmost importance that we undertake a formal process such as this investigation. – Hon. N. Mthethwa
The initial stages of the investigation are already underway. Members of the press will be advised in due course on the progress of the investigation.
For further information and interview requests, please contact: Asanda Magaqa, Spokesperson for the Minister of Arts and Culture- 072 372 6807 (Mobile) ; and asandam@dac.gov.za (Email).
ISSUED BY DEPARTMENT OF ARTS AND CULTURE