Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen is set to face criticism from Parliament’s portfolio committee over concerns about his conduct and interactions with members.
Committee members have raised issues about the minister’s approach during meetings, with additional allegations that members were recorded without consent during oversight visits.
TENSIONS WITHIN COMMITTEE
The matter was brought forward by Athol Trollip, who cited growing tensions between himself and Steenhuisen. He expressed concern that their disagreements were becoming personal, rather than focused on addressing the impact of the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.
Committee chairperson Dina Pule echoed these concerns, indicating dissatisfaction with the minister’s conduct and noting a shift in working relations since the outbreak began.
CALLS FOR FORMAL INTERVENTION
Members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have suggested escalating the matter, arguing that committee proceedings should not be used to settle personal disputes.
Pule has indicated that she intends to address the concerns directly with Steenhuisen at the next committee meeting.
ONGOING OVERSIGHT UNDER STRAIN
The portfolio committee has been receiving regular updates from the minister and his department on efforts to manage the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. However, tensions between members now threaten to disrupt the oversight process.
The situation highlights growing strain within the committee as it continues to monitor the government’s response to the crisis.
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