Nathi Nhleko Refutes Claims on Nkandla 'Fire Pool', Calls for Factual Discourse

In the continuing saga of the Nkandla homestead, former police minister Nathi Nhleko stands firm on his position regarding the controversial R3.9 million 'fire pool' at ex-president Jacob Zuma's estate. Amid renewed discussion and criticisms from ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, Nhleko underscores the validity and necessity of the pool, which has been a point of political contention and public scrutiny.

The Nkandla controversy, a thorn in the side of the African National Congress (ANC), dates back several years, reaching a climax with former public protector Thuli Madonsela's "Secure In Comfort" report. The report highlighted various non-essential security features, including the infamous pool, as part of costly upgrades deemed for private benefit. These findings prompted the Constitutional Court to rule on a repayment by Zuma, yet the pool's classification still attracts fierce debate.

Nhleko, who served under Zuma's administration, remains adamant that the pool was designed and constructed as a strategic fire mitigation resource, citing water access issues within Nkandla's compound. He disputes the competency of Mbalula and the ANC in determining the nature of the pool, suggesting the need for a technical and objective analysis beyond political assertions.

Engineer Oberholzer's rationale for the fire pool, based on the requirement of an open water source for firefighting purposes, is a crucial element of Nhleko's defense. He condemns any suggestion of falsehood communicated to Parliament, calling for transparency on any directives he may have received to misinform the legislature and, by extension, the public.

The debate grew heated when Mbalula reopened the contentious issue, attempting to criticize Zuma and indirectly admonish the ANC. Statements implicating Nhleko in misrepresentation seriously undermine the party's image and cast shadows over the current President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was then the deputy president.

In the face of accusations, Nhleko's report remains unchallenged in court, though the Democratic Alliance had voiced intentions to do so. He contends that the absence of legal contestation upholds his report's standing. In the meantime, high-ranking ANC officials like national chairperson Gwede Mantashe rebuke Mbalula for dredging up the matter, warning of the potential damage to the ANC's reputation.

Nhleko, determined to clear his name and the ANC's, rebuffs Mbalula's personal attack on his behavior during a past press conference as unprofessional and unfounded. The suggestion that his physical demeanor implied deceit is dismissed as baseless by Nhleko. He pledges to focus on campaigning for the ANC's victory in the upcoming 2024 elections, reinforcing his commitment to the party's principles and governance.

The Nkandla 'fire pool' debate is emblematic of the intricate web of politics, accountability, and governance in South Africa. As the conversation unfolds, the nation watches closely, expecting transparency and integrity from its leaders.