As Members of Parliament (MPs) across the country submit their annual declarations of personal and financial interests, analysts are raising concerns that the disclosures, while seemingly comprehensive, could be a polished version of a more complex reality. 

The latest report, released on Friday by the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests, reveals a diverse array of gifts, properties, shares, and other benefits received by lawmakers in 2025. 

Still, critics argue these declarations may be designed to obscure deeper financial entanglements.

All 400 MPs submitted their disclosures within the stipulated deadline for the first time, a sign of increased compliance. 

The register details a wide spectrum of interests, including cellphones, liquor, sheep, food parcels, books, tickets to sporting and music events, and paid air travel and accommodations. 

Notably, prominent figures such as Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Deputy Minister Alvin Botes declared multiple properties, shares in financial institutions, and rental income, highlighting their substantial asset portfolios.

However, political analyst Joe Mhlanga cautions that these declarations may not fully reflect the true financial landscape of South Africa’s political elite.

“If the declarations were a true reflection of the lives led by politicians, then this country would be thriving,” Mhlanga stated. 

“What we are seeing might be a deliberate effort by some of these politicians to mask the extent of their assets and dealings. Many have foundations or entities that facilitate campaign funding or other activities, and these often operate behind the scenes to prevent scrutiny.”

He added, “Politicians go to great lengths to ensure that their assets or dealings are not registered under their names or are kept out of the public eye. 

“This makes it easier for them to avoid questions about the origins of their wealth or potential conflicts of interest. The declared gifts and interests are just the tip of the iceberg.”

Despite these concerns, Mhlanga mentioned that Parliament must bolster its oversight mechanisms. 

“There is a pressing need for stronger checks and balances to ensure accountability,” he urged.

“Without robust oversight, these declarations risk becoming mere formalities rather than tools for transparency.”

The report also highlights a growing trend of MPs tapping into other income streams. 

Several lawmakers declared ownership of multiple properties and shares in various financial companies. For instance, Botes owns five properties and has shares valued at approximately R2.8 million with Poliyane Property Trust, in addition to rental income from his properties. 

Similarly, Mashatile owns three multimillion-rand properties in affluent suburbs like Constantia and Midrand.

The disclosures also revealed some less conventional gifts. Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), received a sheep valued at R7,000, Lindt chocolates, and a bottle of wine as gifts.

The report also noted instances of sponsored travel, such as several ActionSA MPs who declared trips to Taiwan funded by the local trade office, when calls to downgrade Taiwan’s diplomatic status in Pretoria are intensifying.

Historian Khaya Ndwandwe said politicians have learned the game of not attracting attention.

“While the declarations provide a snapshot of MPs’ interests, our people have a different argument that without stronger enforcement and transparency measures, the declarations  risk serving as a façade rather than a true account of political financial dealings.”

Ndwandwe felt that although transparency is vital, it must be genuine. 

“Otherwise, these declarations are just window dressing – a polished version of a reality that may be far more troubling. And we know this because every day in the news, we read about much-needed resources politicians steal.”

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics

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