Mashinini says Zuma ties won't affect new IEC role
Newly-appointed Independent Electoral Commission chairperson Vuma Mashinini has allayed concerns that his previous involvement with President Jacob Zuma will affect his new role.
After his appointment on Wednesday, the DA reiterated its concern that Mashinini's close relationship with Zuma will compromise the IEC.
Mashinini, who is Zuma's ex-special projects advisor, was formally appointed in Pretoria yesterday.
He was asked by media during a briefing in Pretoria if he is bothered about the perception that he is a close Zuma ally.
In response, Mashinini told reporters he is a professional.
He says he has provided services in management consulting all over the country and continent to various institutions and has served the presidency solely on the basis of his professional expertise.
Mashinini says his work relating to his presidency has been completed and handed over, adding that he is proud to have served the head of state.
He also explained that the IEC is a collective and he has been deployed to chair among equals.
The position of IEC chairperson was left vacant after Pansy Tlakula resigned last year.
Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela found Tlakula to have not adhered to procurement regulations in securing a multi-million rand lease deal for the IEC’s headquarters in Centurion.
(Photo: Gallo Images)