Bathabile Dlamini argues against cost order over Sassa
Dlamini says she acted in good faith in the payment of social grants debacle, and should not ‘in law’ be held liable for legal costs
Former social development minister Bathabile Dlamini is questioning whether it is appropriate in a constitutional democracy to hold government officials, who are performing their discretionary functions, personally liable for cost orders in legal matters. This formed part of Dlamini’s affidavit submitted to the Constitutional Court on why she should not be held personally liable and pay the costs of the recent South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) matter that saw the court once again extend an illegal contract with Cash Paymaster Services (CPS). Last month, the court extended the CPS contract for another six months for the management of cash payments of social grants to 2.5-million beneficiaries. The court also ordered that Dlamini and acting Sassa CEO Pearl Bhengu file affidavits motivating why they should not be held personally liable for the agency’s inability to take over the payments and pay out of their own pockets. In her affidavit submitted to the court on Monday, Dla...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.