Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has rejected allegations that he was improperly influenced to meet with satellite internet company Starlink. His response follows claims that former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Tony Leon encouraged DA ministers to engage with representatives of the company.
The allegations have drawn attention because Leon owns Resolve Communications, a consultancy firm that lists Starlink among its clients. Questions have since been raised over whether his relationship with the company created a conflict of interest.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Malatsi said his engagement with Starlink formed part of his responsibilities as minister. He added that he has also met with several other international satellite operators in the course of his work.
Starlink Remains Unable To Operate In South Africa
Starlink remains unavailable in South Africa despite being owned by South African-born billionaire Elon Musk. The satellite internet provider has not launched locally because it has not complied with the country’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) ownership requirements.
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Under current licensing regulations, companies seeking to operate in South Africa must meet BBBEE ownership criteria. This would require Starlink to allocate a portion of its ownership to historically disadvantaged groups before obtaining an operating licence.
In May last year, Malatsi published a policy directive proposing equity equivalent investment programmes for the information and communications technology sector. Some critics argued the proposal could provide an alternative to the existing BBBEE ownership requirements.
Tony Leon’s Role Sparks Conflict Of Interest Questions
The Starlink controversy intensified after former DA leader John Steenhuisen made claims during a recent interview with News24. According to Steenhuisen, Tony Leon had been urging Malatsi to find a way for Starlink to enter the South African market.
The claims have renewed debate over potential conflicts of interest. Leon served as one of the Democratic Alliance’s negotiators during the formation of the Government of National Unity and continues to hold influence within the party.
Malatsi has, however, dismissed suggestions that Leon played any improper role in his decision-making. He maintains that his meetings with Starlink and other satellite companies were conducted as part of his official ministerial duties.
Solly Malatsi Rejects Allegations Of Improper Influence
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Malatsi has reiterated that his engagements with global satellite providers are consistent with the responsibilities of his office. He insists that no outside individual influenced his decision to meet with Starlink representatives.
The minister’s denial comes as debate continues over South Africa’s ICT policies and the requirements companies must meet before entering the local market. The issue has also reignited discussion around BBBEE compliance and foreign investment in the country’s telecommunications sector.
