By Sithembile Hlatshwayo | 2024-10-30

Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo needs an instrument confirming that Principal Secretary (PS) Bheki Gama, is now fit for duty. Speaking during a press conference in the ministry’s boardroom yesterday, and clarifying the current status regarding the PS, Nxumalo stated that he expected Gama to report to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) or Secretary to Cabinet once he had recovered and was ready to resume his duties.

The Secretary to Cabinet would then write another memorandum advising on the steps that need to be taken for a smooth transition. He explained that the same employer had, in this context, requested Nanikie Mnisi, the incumbent Under-Secretary (Administration), to act as the PS effective from July 23, 2024 for a period not exceeding six months. Nxumalo stated that as a ministry, they regarded the PS as a professional who understood what needed to be done, including in this situation.

The minister mentioned that they would request the PS to refrain from calling officers in the ministry to his office during his visits. Furthermore, he stated that the acting PS, Mnisi, was not in a position to take orders from the PS in the meantime until there was official communication from the employer and the Secretary to Cabinet. He said, “As the minister responsible for the education and training portfolio, I felt it prudent to call this press conference to address a few housekeeping issues.” Nxumalo noted that much had been said through the media regarding the matter, but the ministry had not commented; hence they wished to set the record straight. This, Nxumalo said, was to ensure that they could work effectively and efficiently as a ministry and ensure that all their stakeholders had a clear understanding of how they operate even in these challenging times. According to the minister, after observing ill-health, the CSC decided to request Gama to take a special but fully paid six-month leave to recuperate, allowing him to focus on his recovery away from all work pressures.

Nxumalo mentioned that this was communicated in person to the PS by the chairman of the civil service Commission, the secretary to Cabinet, and a representative of the attorney general. memorandum “He was advised to recuperate at home until such time as he is ready to assume office.” The minister stated that this was further supported by a memorandum dated July 18, 2024. He said the office also realised that Gama was having difficulty walking, writing, and his speech was unclear.

The minister explained that it was the CSC that made the decision for the PS to recover at home, and the government would continue to pay his salary in full. The minister emphasised that what was important was for him to recover so that he can return to work and perform his duties to the fullest of his capabilities. He added that if the PS was feeling better, he could return to his employer and communicate, and the employer would then contact them and issue an instrument to that effect.

On another note, Nxumalo pleaded with media houses to treat this issue with the utmost humility, privacy, and respect. He stated that if possible, they should work together to positively support him (Gama) on his road to recovery.

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