By: Gift Nyamapfene

Blade Nzimande said that he was shocked by Tito Mboweni’s remarks on Facebook on Thursday.

Higher Education spokesperson, Vuyo Yekani, said Nzimande was “Disturbed by nuances or inferences that he could block Mr. Mboweni’s nominations or appointments in any of our institutions of higher learning.”

In a social media post aimed at clarifying why he had withdrawn his name from the ANC parliament nomination list, the former Reserve Bank Governor wrote, “I will continue to work with universities and pass on my experience to students. I very much enjoy this work. If the Minister of Higher Education does not block my nominations, I will also play a role as Chancellor or Chairman of Council at one or other university.”

Nzimande said Mboweni’s comments were “malicious”.

“Dr Nzimande has put it on record that Chairpersons of University Councils and Chancellors are appointed by University Councils and that the Ministry of Higher Education plays no role in that regard,” said Yekani.

Mboweni was installed as Chancellor of the North West University in 2002. He has served as an Honorary Professor in a number of higher education institutions. Nzimande said neither these appointments nor any in the future, required his ministry’s approval. He said appointments were the prerogative of University Council processes.

Nzimande said he would confront Mboweni over the comments.

“The Minister will engage Mr Mboweni on the matter in good faith, as they continue to enjoy cordial relations as comrades and colleagues serving in the ruling party’s National Executive Committee,” said Yekani.