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In terms of the report released by the Office of the Auditor-General regarding the investigation of mismanagement at Ermelo High School, various excesses are highlighted pertaining to serious and gross mismanagement of school funds.

Mr Hein Mentz, leader of the NNP in Mpumalanga and a member of the Public Accounts Committee in the Mpumalanga Legislature, makes some very startling comments, in reaction to the report.

He contends that the investigation was inspired by hidden motives, and that the findings are an attempt at undermining Afrikaans schools. He also makes reference to certain agreements with the SBG of the school, which were allegedly broken by the Department. He further indicates his close relationship with the school community and its management operations. He conveniently asserts that the SGB was not given sufficient time to respond on certain issues.

In response, MEC Craig Padayachee says first he finds it disturbing that the school principal, having received official instructions to hand over keys, including the vehicle, refuses to carry out a lawful instruction. "It is a clear indication of someone who has for years abused his authority by utilizing public funds for private and personal gain. He will be charged for fraud."

It is equally strange and distressing to learn that Mr Mentz, a person entrusted with public funds condones corrupt practices as outlined in the A-G's report. The report refers to gross financial malpractices. As for the assertion that the SGB was never given sufficient time to respond to the management report, the contrary is true. On two occasions, the Auditor-General granted extension on request by the SGB.

MEC Padayachee urges Mr Mentz to publicly declare his relationship with the school, and indicate what favors accrued to him from such a relationship; given that he has since become the official mouthpiece of Ermelo High School. As a member of the Public Accounts Committee of the Legislature, it would have been expected that he would fight corruption from whichever quarter it emanated.

"The best conclusion that can be drawn from this over-zealousness in pronouncing himself on any matter outside his domain, can be that since his political career is becoming almost extinct, Mr Mentz would use every opportunity to create political storms."

The point must be made that there is nothing sinister about the report. The issues raised in the report are issues of gross financial impropriety, are non-political issues. They are issues of high school fees that parents must pay in order to satisfy the insatiable appetite of some unscrupulous and self-serving characters.

In the meantime, all reasonable measures are being pursued to ensure that the principal, as head of Ermelo High School, submits all school property. This will ascertain that the parents of Ermelo do not continue to finance the marvelous joyride by Mr Kruger and company, with the unreserved support of the honorable Mr Mentz. (END).

Inquiries Peter Maminza at 013 766 5312 or 082 445 3791.

Issued by: Office of the MEC for Education, Mpumalanga, 14 December 2001