Ramokgopa Defends Staff Appointments amid Budget Discussion

South Africa's Minister of Electricity, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, recently addressed concerns regarding the cost of his office to taxpayers. Addressing a query by EFF MP Phiwaba Madokwe, the minister stated that the total expenditure, standing at R13m per annum, adheres to the 2019 guide for executive members to provide administrative support.

The minister's salary of R2.4 million per year, combined with those of his two advisors, who each earn an annual R2.1m, contribute to this grand total. Ramokgopa clarified that the operational cost for the Minister under the Presidency responsible for Electricity emanated from the budget of the Presidency itself.

Madokwe questioned the appointment processes of special advisors, Sarel Jacobs and Silas Mzingeli, especially considering the existence of the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), responsible for advising on the Eskom crisis. In response, Ramokgopa explained that advisory appointments were made in accordance with the Public Service Act. NECOM headed by the minister, comprises above 100 government, Eskom, business, and social partner officials, thus serving a crucial oversight role.

Ramokgopa distinguished the roles of NECOM reps and special advisors. While NECOM aids in addressing the energy crisis and unlocking energy sources, including Eskom, the special advisors contribute full-time to the office, guiding the Minister in his delegatory functions.