Ge Breytenbach, a DA councillor in Tshwane, is facing accusations of financial mismanagement and failing to account for funds collected while serving as the chair and director of the Friends of the National Zoo in Pretoria. Two criminal complaints have been filed against the councillor.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
The non-profit organization claims that Breytenbach failed to deposit fundraising money into its bank account despite receiving multiple requests to do so. Specific unaccounted amounts include R4 050, R2 000, and R2 500 from various fundraising activities.
Further allegations suggest that Breytenbach submitted an invoice for R13 700 for work performed in a role the organization describes as voluntary. This has contributed to a reported breakdown in trust between the councillor and the organization’s leadership.
Beyond financial concerns, director Dirk Bester alleged that Breytenbach did not return several assets following his resignation in January. These items include a donated camera, keys, and access to digital platforms.
There are also claims that the charity’s website and Facebook page were removed, allegedly by Breytenbach. Members of the organization emphasized that because times are tough, every penny collected is vital for continuing their conservation work.
Political Fallout and Internal Investigations
The matter has been escalated within the Democratic Alliance and is currently being handled by the party’s federal legal commission. Despite the allegations, Breytenbach remains a sitting councillor and has not been suspended.
Crezane Bosch, the DA Gauteng North regional chair, stated that the party is allowing due process to take its course to ensure fairness. She noted that any future action will depend on the outcomes of both internal and external processes.
Internal tension is mounting, with some caucus members questioning why Breytenbach has not yet been suspended. A caucus member further revealed that a separate investigation is underway regarding Breytenbach’s underperformance in his role as a councillor.
Response and Potential Outcomes
Breytenbach declined to provide a full response to the allegations, stating that doing so could jeopardize an ongoing investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS). He instead questioned the source of the information and indicated he would seek legal advice.
Looking forward, the outcome of the federal legal commission’s inquiry may determine whether Breytenbach remains in his current position. Depending on the findings of the SAPS investigation, further legal proceedings could potentially follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Friends of the National Zoo?
It is a non-profit organization that supports the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria through wildlife conservation advocacy, animal adoption programmes, and educational initiatives.
Why has Ge Breytenbach not been suspended from the DA?
DA Gauteng North regional chair Crezane Bosch stated that the party is following due process to ensure fairness, and the next steps will be determined by the federal legal commission’s inquiry.
What specific assets were allegedly not returned?
According to director Dirk Bester, the assets include a donated camera, keys, and access to digital platforms.
How should political parties balance the presumption of innocence with public accountability when officials face criminal allegations?
