Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has denied allegations that the State Security Agency (SSA) is forcing employees over the age of 50 to take early retirement or face dismissal. The clarification comes in response to a parliamentary question by Democratic Alliance (DA) MP Dianne Kohler, who raised concerns about the agency’s staffing policies and their impact on South Africa’s efforts to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
No Forced Early Retirement
Ntshavheni emphasized that the SSA is not compelling employees over 50 to retire early. Instead, the agency is offering a voluntary severance package as part of the government’s early retirement program announced in the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS).
“This process will, among other things, assist the SSA to address the skills and competency gaps identified in the recently completed skills audit and competency assessments,” Ntshavheni explained. She added that the initiative aligns with recommendations from the high-level review panel report, which called for the professionalization of the agency.
The minister assured that the voluntary severance plan would not hinder South Africa’s progress in meeting FATF requirements.
Addressing Vetting Backlogs
Ntshavheni also provided updates on the SSA’s vetting processes, confirming that all agency staff hold valid security clearances. She revealed that 9% of employees are currently undergoing re-vetting, a process that is conducted six months before clearances expire.
“The SSA has addressed the vetting backlog and is now in the process of implementing a re-vetting plan to ensure that re-vetting is conducted proactively,” Ntshavheni stated. This marks a significant improvement from previous years, when vetting backlogs were a major concern.
High-Level Review Panel Report
The high-level review panel report, released in 2019, exposed deep dysfunction within the SSA, including political factionalism and the misuse of intelligence services for personal and political gain during former President Jacob Zuma’s tenure.
Ntshavheni noted that 67% of the report’s recommendations have been implemented, with the remaining measures awaiting the enactment of the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill (GILAB). The bill, which aims to strengthen governance and internal controls within the SSA, is currently awaiting President Cyril Ramaphosa’s approval.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong recently announced that the SSA is finalizing an independent panel to handle internal disciplinary actions against those responsible for mismanagement during the state capture era. To date, one SSA member and two non-members have been criminally charged and convicted for offenses exposed at the State Capture Commission.
Key Takeaways:
- The SSA is not forcing employees over 50 to retire early but is offering a voluntary severance package.
- The initiative aims to address skills gaps and align with the high-level review panel’s recommendations.
- Vetting backlogs have been resolved, and a proactive re-vetting plan is in place.
- The SSA is working to strengthen governance and address past mismanagement through legislative and disciplinary measures.
By addressing staffing and vetting challenges, the SSA aims to enhance its operational effectiveness and contribute to South Africa’s efforts to exit the FATF grey list.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com