Judge throws the ball in Makume’s court

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – The Free State High Court sting Judge T Randeyal has thrown the ball in MEC for Economic and Tourism, Ketso Makume’s court in the latest saga between the board and suspended CEO, Kenny Dichabe.

This followed an application by Dichabe in which he challenged a disciplinary hearing in part A and the board’s authority to suspend him in part B.

Dichabe won the round with his disciplinary hearing scheduled for 5 June 2024, suspended pending judgment on who has the power to suspend or/and who has the power to institute disciplinary action against him as CEO. He argued it’s the MEC while the board argued it’s the chairperson.

The court ruled in favor of Dichabe and ordered the Free State Liquor Tourism Gambling Authority to pay the costs.

Makume has been given 20 days by the court to investigate the financial misconduct allegations against Dichabe and if confirmed, initiate disciplinary action.

Asked for comment, Makume said.

“I have asked the legal team of experts to look at the matter and advise me.”

The court ruled the interdict on disciplinary action and suspension of Dichabe remain enforced pending Makume’s decision.

The chief of staff in Makume’s office is FSGLTA Board member and whether that creates conflict of interest for Makume is a story for another day.

FSGLA has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons with news that none of the board members were vetted and as a result, the current chairperson has a criminal record.

This is a developing story.

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