Eastern Cape Health Department Spokesperson Arrested on Fraud Charges

The spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Health, Sizwe Kupelo, was arrested and appeared in the Zwelitsha Magistrate’s Court on charges of fraud and forgery. Kupelo, aged 47, was granted bail of R30,000 and instructed to return to court on Wednesday next week. The arrest was carried out by the Hawks‘ East London-based Serious Corruption Investigation team after Kupelo handed himself over to the Fleet Street police station for processing.

In 2002, Kupelo was initially appointed as a Communication Officer in the Office of the Premier and later that same year, he transitioned to the role of Deputy Director of Communications in the Department of Health in Bhisho. The alleged fraudulent activity came to light in 2020 when a skills and qualifications audit conducted by the Department revealed discrepancies in the certificates submitted by Kupelo during his employment.

The Eastern Cape Department of Health expressed its cooperation with any investigation aimed at enhancing the integrity of the services provided to the population of the Eastern Cape. Following his arrest, Kupelo’s foundation, the Sizwe Kupelo Foundation, reiterated his background as a journalist before transitioning to public service, showcasing over two decades of experience. Additionally, Kupelo was conferred an honorary doctorate by Trinity International Bible University in 2022.

Recent scrutiny has been directed at Trinity International Bible University after the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Blade Nzimande, released a statement clarifying that the institution is not a registered private higher education entity and lacks authorization to award qualifications, including honorary degrees. This revelation brings into question the suitability of the degrees conferred by the university, including the one awarded to Kupelo. Amidst this controversy, Kupelo’s training at the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation in Oslo, Norway also surfaces as a noteworthy detail.