Civil society groups, led by the NSPCA, are demanding transparency from the DA and Presidency over the appointment of Willie Aucamp as environment minister following Dion George's dismissal. Questions focus on potential conflicts of interest in wildlife industries. George plans to sue for defamation amid allegations against him.
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has formally questioned the Presidency and Democratic Alliance (DA) leaders about Willie Aucamp's suitability as South Africa's new environment minister. In letters sent to President Cyril Ramaphosa, DA leader John Steenhuisen, and federal council chair Helen Zille, the NSPCA seeks proof that Aucamp has no undisclosed interests in controversial wildlife sectors like breeding and captive facilities.
Key inquiries include whether Aucamp will submit his mandatory financial-interest disclosure under the Executive Ethics Code within 60 days and divest from any conflicting interests. The NSPCA also asks for details on conflict assessments related to Aucamp's reported ties to wildlife industry actors involved in ongoing legal battles with the government. Additionally, it probes the DA's nomination criteria and how Aucamp advances constitutional environmental protections, including animal welfare under section 24.
This scrutiny follows the abrupt removal of former minister Dion George, officially cited as underperformance but viewed by critics as a political move favoring wildlife exploitation lobbies. An EMS Foundation report, 'True Colours – The Axing of Minister Dion George,' details George's reforms, such as setting the 2025 lion bone export quota to zero, opposing rhino horn and ivory trade reopenings, and appealing a court ruling on captive rhino horn exports.
NSPCA spokesperson Jacques Peacock emphasized the need for conflict avoidance to enable effective animal welfare enforcement. 'As the statutory body for animal welfare, we need confirmation of how conflict of interest will be avoided,' he said. Aucamp's parliamentary declarations show no wildlife interests, but his Facebook posts indicate associations with farming and hunting groups.
The NSPCA requests documents like reasons for George's exit, DA nomination papers, vetting reports, and recusal protocols. Responses have been limited: Steenhuisen's office declined comment, Aucamp did not reply, and the Presidency cited G20 pressures.
George intends to sue Media24 for defamation over a 17 October News24 article with anonymous allegations, including sexual misconduct, and may target Steenhuisen. Meanwhile, ongoing cases—like those from SA Hunters and the South African Predators Association—could be influenced by Aucamp's positions on quotas and animal wellbeing clauses.
The EMS Foundation warns of reputational risks and potential corruption perceptions if private interests sway decisions, framing this as a test for South African conservation integrity.