Deputy President Paul Mashatile Fined R10,000 Over Undeclared Diamond Gift
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has been fined R10,000 by Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests.
This comes after he failed to declare a diamond gift that was given to his wife by controversial businessman Louis Liebenberg.
Gift Linked to Accused Ponzi Scheme Operator
According to Kaya959, Liebenberg, who is currently incarcerated for his alleged involvement in a diamond Ponzi scheme that defrauded investors of over R4 million in 2019, is at the centre of the complaint that led to Mashatile’s sanction. The gift in question—a diamond—was reportedly given by Liebenberg to Mashatile’s wife.
Ethics Committee Confirms Breach of Code
In a statement issued on Thursday, 31 July 2025, the Ethics Committee confirmed that it had received a formal complaint through the Office of the Registrar, flagging a potential breach of the Code of Ethical Conduct and Members’ Interests.
According to parliamentary rules, Members of Parliament are obliged to disclose any gifts received by themselves or immediate family members in the confidential section of the official register. Mashatile failed to do so in time.
Paul Mashatile Says He Was Awaiting Appraisal
In his defence, the Deputy President argued that the declaration was delayed because he was awaiting an appraisal to determine the diamond’s market value. However, the committee dismissed this reasoning.
“Ethical conduct requires disclosure upon receipt of the gift, with the value submitted at a later stage if necessary,” the committee ruled.
Diamond Surrendered to the NPA
Following the investigation, Mashatile has since surrendered the diamond to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). He was found in breach of Item 13(3)(f) as read with Item 16(1)(a)(ii) of the code, which governs ethical obligations and full disclosure requirements for Members of Parliament.
Parliament to Reprimand Mashatile in the House
The Ethics Committee has recommended that the National Assembly issue an official reprimand to Mashatile in addition to the R10,000 fine, noting that this was a first offence.
“Full disclosure fosters public trust and enhances Parliament’s credibility,” the committee said, emphasising its ongoing commitment to holding public officials accountable.