Parliament, Wednesday, 18 March 2026 – The Joint Standing Committee on the Financial Management of Parliament has noted recent media reports and public statements calling for the suspension of the Secretary to Parliament (STP), Mr Xolile George, raising concerns regarding his recruitment, remuneration and transitional arrangements.
The committee places on record that it has formally and comprehensively considered these matters. On 4 March 2026, the committee received a detailed and evidence-based briefing from the Executive Authority of Parliament addressing the recruitment process followed, the governance framework underpinning the determination of the remuneration package, the independent benchmarking process undertaken, and the subsequent adjustments made to the remuneration package.
Following this engagement, the committee accepted the clarification and confirmed that due process was followed at every stage of the recruitment and appointment process. The committee further confirmed that the remuneration determination was not arbitrary, but the outcome of an independently conducted and formally procured benchmarking process. The committee was satisfied that all decisions taken were properly authorised, aligned with Parliament’s governance framework and consistent with established institutional practice. On this basis, the committee resolved to close the matter.
In response to assertions regarding the role of the Auditor-General of South Africa, the committee clarifies that the recruitment, remuneration offer and subsequent adjustments formed part of the Auditor-General’s formal audit procedures during the 2023/24 financial year. This audit work included a review of the governance framework, the approvals obtained, and the processes followed by Parliament.
The Auditor-General formally concluded that no irregularities were identified. These findings form part of Parliament’s audited annual financial statements and were reached through audit work conducted in accordance with established auditing standards. The absence of a standalone or special audit does not invalidate the audit procedures performed or the conclusions reached. The committee therefore rejects any suggestion that the Auditor-General’s findings are inadequate or improperly relied upon.
The committee further considers it necessary to correct persistent mischaracterisations in the public domain. The position of Secretary to Parliament was publicly advertised on two occasions and subjected to a formal shortlisting process. Following concerns about candidate suitability, a policy-compliant executive search process was initiated in line with Parliament’s human resources framework. The final selection process involved a multi-party parliamentary panel and external governance experts, ensuring independence and institutional credibility. The appointment of Mr George was effected through a formal resolution of Parliament.
These facts refute suggestions that the recruitment process was irregular, manipulated or influenced by the incumbent. Mr George did not participate in or determine the process that led to his appointment. With regard to remuneration, the committee confirms that the salary initially attached to the post was set at an interim level, with a clear understanding that an independent benchmarking process would determine a final, market-related total remuneration package. This benchmarking process was procured through formal supply chain management procedures and conducted by an independent specialist service provider, with validation by external auditors.
The revised remuneration package was determined on the basis of objective criteria, including the scale and complexity of Parliament as a constitutional institution and the accountability obligations attached to the role. The outcome was formally approved by the Executive Authority of Parliament and implemented in accordance with established governance processes.
It must be stated unequivocally that the Secretary to Parliament does not have the authority to determine or adjust his own salary. All remuneration decisions are taken through institutional governance structures. Any suggestion that Mr George increased his own salary is false and misleading, no matter how often such a falsehood is repeated.
The committee also notes claims relating to overlapping remuneration during the transition period between Parliament and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA). The committee confirms that formal transitional arrangements were agreed upon between the two institutions to ensure continuity of governance and operational responsibilities. Such arrangements are recognised governance mechanisms and do not constitute irregular expenditure.
The committee further notes that matters relating to SALGA fall within the governance framework of that institution and do not alter the lawfulness of Parliament’s processes, which have been independently verified.
The committee recognises the role of certain political parties and the public in raising concerns and ensuring accountability. However, it expresses concern that this matter continues to be mischaracterised through the repetition of allegations that disregard verified facts and independent audit findings.
Having exercised its oversight responsibility and considered all relevant facts and audit findings, the committee is satisfied that all processes relating to the recruitment and remuneration of the Secretary to Parliament were lawful, compliant and properly authorised. The committee, therefore, reaffirms the legitimacy of the appointment and the determination of remuneration, supports the continuation of the contract as lawfully concluded and formally closes the matter.
Accordingly, the committee considers this matter fully ventilated, conclusively addressed and definitively settled.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA ON BEHALF OF THE CO-CHAIRPERSON OF THE JOINT STANDING COMMITTEE ON THE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT OF PARLIAMENT, MS SANNY NDHLOVU AND ACTING CO-CHAIRPERSON, MR CAMERON DUGMORE.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the media officer:
Name: Alicestine October (Ms)
Cell: 083 665 4345
E-mail: aoctober@parliament.gov.za
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