Political Tensions Rise Following Appointment of John Lamola as New SAA CEO

The recent appointment of John Lamola as Group CEO of South African Airways (SAA) by the South African Cabinet on February 27 has sparked political debate and controversy. Critics, including the Democratic Alliance (DA), have raised concerns over alleged “political interference” in the selection process.

The DA, a member of the country’s Government of National Unity (GNU), has urged the Cabinet to reject Lamola’s appointment, claiming it was influenced by political favoritism. They argue that Lamola’s selection was driven by ANC patronage rather than merit.

In response, the DA has filed a formal complaint with South Africa’s Public Protector, accusing Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Transport Minister Barbara Creecy of acting inappropriately. The DA’s claims stem from a recent News24 report that suggests Lamola was chosen over the SAA board’s top candidate, Allan Kilavuka, the current CEO of Kenya Airways. Kilavuka, despite scoring the highest in the selection process, was reportedly overlooked in favor of Lamola, fueling accusations of ANC cadre deployment.

Minister Creecy, in her February 27 statement, did not directly name Kilavuka but confirmed that the leading candidate was a non-South African CEO of another African airline. She cited previous security clearance issues with non-South African candidates as a concern but defended the process, claiming it was led by the government.

Creecy and Mashatile, after consulting with the SAA board and President Cyril Ramaphosa, interviewed both Kilavuka and Lamola. They ultimately decided on Lamola, praising his performance over the past two years as interim CEO, where he helped stabilize SAA, improve its finances, and expand its network.

The DA, however, has questioned the independence of the SAA board, particularly the role of Chairman Derek Hanekom, suggesting he may have been influenced by the ANC. The DA has vowed to request the minutes of the board meeting to investigate further.

The SAA board has expressed full support for Lamola, highlighting that under his leadership, SAA achieved its first profit since 2012 in the 2022/23 financial year, amounting to ZAR252 million (USD 13.7 million). “His proven leadership will ensure stability and continuity in SAA’s governance and operations,” the board added.

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