Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber as the department intensifies its anti-corruption drive, dismissing seven more officials and bringing total terminations to 63 amid an ongoing crackdown on misconduct.
Image: Ntswe Mokoena / GCIS
Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, has confirmed the immediate dismissal of seven additional officials, bringing the total number of dismissals to 63 since the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in July 2024.
The latest action follows the conclusion of disciplinary processes into various cases of misconduct, with a further 16 officials placed under suspension as investigations continue. Some of these cases stem from findings contained in an interim report by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU).
The Department of Home Affairs said the dismissals form part of a broader effort to clamp down on corruption, maladministration and unethical conduct within its ranks, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
Since July 2024, the department has initiated 95 misconduct cases, with 75 already finalised. Officials say this reflects a more aggressive and consistent approach to consequence management aimed at restoring accountability.
Schreiber said the pace of disciplinary action signals a shift in how the department deals with wrongdoing.
“The decisive pace at which the Department now processes disciplinary matters, resulting in ongoing dismissals and other disciplinary action, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to cleaning up the damage done to Home Affairs over many years,” he said.
He added that the department’s approach goes beyond rhetoric, emphasising tangible action to rebuild institutional integrity.
“Our zero-tolerance approach does not rely on words, it is demonstrated in ongoing concrete action to rebuild the rule of law in a department that is fundamental to the functioning of our society.”
The department has also moved to tighten internal controls and oversight systems, with officials noting that these interventions are already producing measurable improvements in operations.
Schreiber reiterated that while action is being taken against wrongdoing, efforts are also underway to support ethical officials and modernise the department.
“Our message remains unambiguous: we will continue to empower and reward the many officials in Home Affairs who are working diligently to implement our digital transformation agenda to deliver dignity for all, while dealing decisively and immediately with anyone found guilty of corruption, fraud or misconduct.”
The department said the crackdown will continue as part of its broader reform agenda aimed at restoring public trust in Home Affairs services.
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