The Nelson Mandela Foundation announced the dismissal of its outgoing chief executive, Sello Hatang, following an investigation into employee complaints, revealing unacceptable behavior.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA | NOW THEN DIGITAL — The Nelson Mandela Foundation made a significant announcement on Wednesday, revealing its decision to terminate the employment of Sello Hatang, the organization’s outgoing chief executive.
The foundation’s action follows a thorough investigation into employee complaints, which uncovered Hatang’s unacceptable conduct during his tenure.
Special Leave and Fair Investigation Preceded the Dismissal
Just last month, the foundation had placed Hatang on special leave after he had already resigned earlier in May.
The purpose of the leave was to conduct an investigation into allegations of misconduct against him, although specific details regarding the nature of the allegations were not disclosed.
Conclusion of the Investigation and Summary Dismissal
After careful consideration of the findings from the independent investigation, the foundation’s board reached the decision to summarily dismiss Hatang due to his unbecoming conduct and its incompatibility with his position.
Njabulo Ndebele, the foundation’s chairperson, emphasized that the investigation had been conducted fairly and impartially.
“After considering the outcomes of the independent investigation, and ensuring that the process had been conducted fairly and without prejudice, the board concluded that Mr Hatang’s conduct had been unbecoming and was unacceptable for someone in his position and that he should be summarily dismissed,” he said.
Focus on Continuity and Mandela’s Vision
With the dismissal concluded, the foundation’s primary focus now shifts towards ensuring the seamless continuation of its activities. Of particular importance is the approaching commemoration of Nelson Mandela’s birthday on July 18.
The foundation remains dedicated to promoting Mandela’s vision of freedom and equality for all, reinforcing his status as a global icon.
The Search for a New CEO Begins
Ndebele announced that the process of appointing a new CEO would commence shortly.
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As the foundation moves forward, the selection of a new leader becomes a pivotal step in maintaining its commitment to upholding Mandela’s legacy and advancing his philanthropic endeavors.
Navigating Distress and Upholding Foundation’s Integrity
While the specifics of the matter remain undisclosed, Ndebele expressed the foundation’s reluctance to provide further comments.
The situation has caused significant distress among the foundation, its employees, and its wider community of stakeholders. The focus now lies in healing and maintaining the foundation’s integrity in the pursuit of its crucial mission.
“The board will not comment further on the specifics of the matter, save to say that it has caused much distress to the foundation, its employees and its broader community of stakeholders.”, he added.
Continuing the Mandela Legacy
Established in 1999, following Nelson Mandela’s departure as South Africa’s first democratically elected president, the Nelson Mandela Foundation serves as the cornerstone of his philanthropic work.
Since Mandela’s passing in December 2013 at the age of 95, the foundation has tirelessly worked to carry forward his legacy, ensuring that his vision of a world characterized by freedom and equality remains alive and thriving.
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