The Limpopo provincial government has moved to defend its decision to appoint Kgabo Makhoi as finance minister.
Mahoai was sacked as director-general of the International Relations and Enterprise Department in 2021.
His dismissal was in relation to a R118 million tender for South Africa's diplomatic offices and accommodation in New York, USA.
But Mahoai has taken his dismissal to the Labour Court. He was one of 10 MECs sworn in in Polokwane.
Democratic Alliance (DA) Limpopo provincial leader Lindy Wilson said Mahoai could not be entrusted with Limpopo's public funds.
“Frankly, we have serious concerns about the Cabinet she has announced, particularly the finance minister. He is the same man who was asked for R118 million worth of irregular expenditure by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to buy land in New York, which is a red flag for us.”
Limpopo provincial spokesperson Ndabe Ramakuela hit back at the criticism, saying the High Court had acquitted Mahoai.
“The process by which the Chief Minister selects members of the state assembly from the names received from the state assembly is her prerogative,” he said.
Video: Limpopo government defends appointment of MEC Kgabo Makhoi:
