The South African government has proposed a tax amendment to introduce a unified online gambling tax for improved cross-country compliance, encouraging operators to register...
Gauteng’s gambling regulator fired for financial misconduct
The government of South Africa has fired the CEO of Gauteng province’s gambling regulator, Karabo Mbele, over charges of gross misconduct and abuse of public resources.
Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture, and Rural Development in Gauteng, revealed on May 18 that she had to fire Mbele, the head of the Gauteng Gambling Board, and terminate Oscar Maripane, the regulator’s chief financial officer, as well. The terminations came after investigations found that both had engaged in governance failures, including funding processes, payment authorizations without documentation, and procurement irregularities.
Ramokgopa commented:
“It has become clear to me that the status quo at the Gauteng Gambling Board cannot continue. Corruption, maladministration, and the abuse of public resources will not be tolerated under this administration, and no individual will be above reproach. As a result, I have terminated the contract of employment of the CEO, Dr Karabo Mbele, with immediate effect.”
She also shared that the investigations were launched after whistleblower complaints were submitted against the regulator, following Ramokgopa taking up her role on April 1, 2026.
Ramokgopa added:
“It is deeply concerning that since assuming office six weeks ago, I have been inundated with whistleblower reports, many of whom requested to remain anonymous, citing various instances of misconduct, malfeasance, and maladministration at the gambling board.”
The province is now in the process of rebuilding the regulatory body and has appointed an administrator until a new board is established.
South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) is pushing for significant changes in the country’s online gambling regulations with the introduction of the Remote Gambling Bill.
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