The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has intensified calls for a forensic investigation into the salary structure of Xolile George at the Public Protector’s office following scrutiny of recent financial statements.
Questions around George’s remuneration emerged after current financial records reportedly showed that his salary sits at just under R5 million.
Speaking on the matter, EFF MP Omphile Moatwe said the figures reflected in the audited statements warranted urgent investigation.
EFF Raises Concerns Over Xolile George Salary Structure
Moatwe argued that the financial records did not support claims that parts of the remuneration package could be treated as a form of cash option scheme.
“The issue of forensic investigation is much more urgent now to look at. Now there is an option to cash as if you are in a cash option scheme, there is nothing like that in parliament,” said Moatwe.
He added that the EFF had examined audited financial statements from the South African Local Government Association (Salga) in a bid to compare the remuneration details.
“So the audited financial statements are clear. You know we went further to check the audited financial statements of Salga where it says his salary is this much, there was long term incentive of R2.5 million. There was short term incentive of R757 000. That’s how financial statements work. They will be very clear and indicative what each item is about.”
Audited Financial Statements Under Spotlight
According to Moatwe, the records clearly distinguish between salary components and incentive payments.
“This one item is basic salary. There is no gratuity in that but worse, if there was you can’t share a cash as if there is a cash option as if we have a share option scheme. We don’t have,” he said.
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The EFF maintains that a forensic investigation would provide clarity on the remuneration structure and the payments reflected in the financial statements.
The matter is expected to continue drawing political attention as scrutiny grows over financial governance and accountability within public institutions.
