Probe into museum management

AN INVESTIGATION into Robben Island Museum has been launched by Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa after allegations of nepotism and corruption against the management and board were made by the ex-political prisoners’ association.

“We are aware that these allegations are centred on issues of governance, nepotism and corruption,” Mthethwa said.

The Ex-Robben Island Political Prisoners’ Association of South Africa, a body representing all former political prisoners in the country, has slammed the management of the island for disregarding them.

The association submitted 18 questions in November to the management team requesting answers.

These ranged from what steps had been taken to ensure socio-economic benefits to former political prisoners.

They also demanded answers on what steps Robben Island Museum has taken against the entities who were found guilty of price fixing and collusion by the Competition Commission.

Mpho Masemola, the national secretary of the association said: “We welcome the minister’s response to these grievances.”

Sibusiso Buthelezi, chairperson of the council at Robben Island Museum said: “We welcome the investigation because we believe it will bring this madness to an end once and for all.”