Cabinet members must follow ethics code

Members of Cabinet could face financial penalties if they do not comply with the Executive Members’ Ethics Code.

Cabinet had adopted sanctions as interim measures for its members who breach the Executive Members' Ethics Act, which requires a prompt disclosure of interests. If ministers or the president fail to comply with the code, they can be fined up to a month's salary or see their salary or allowances reduced for a period of up to 15 days.

"This follows the Public Protector's report that found that President Zuma did not comply with the requirements of disclosure of interests as required by the Executive Members' Code of Ethics," Government spokesman Themba Maseko says.

The declaration of interests by Cabinet members came under the spotlight when it emerged that President Zuma had failed to complete the register almost a year into his term. Members are required to complete the register within 60 days of being sworn in.

In May, Public Protector Thuli Madonsela’s report found Zuma guilty of not disclosing his within 60 days of taking office. In the report, Madonsela recommended that Parliament should study her report and consider imposing the same penalties on Cabinet ministers, particularly when they delay in declaring their interests. – BuaNews