RIGHT OF REPLY: SAA acting CEO Matshela Seshibe responds: Daybreak not linked to suspension

SAA acting CEO Matshela Seshibe has responded to Daily Maverick, clarifying that his recent suspension is not related to the ongoing probe into the collapse of Daybreak Foods. On August 14, 2026, the SAA Board placed Seshibe on immediate special leave amid an internal review aimed at protecting the interests of SAA and maintaining governance standards.

This suspension coincided with a formal request from the Democratic Alliance to President Cyril Ramaphosa for a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into Daybreak Foods' collapse, backed by leaked forensic findings.

In his response published on August 20, 2026, Seshibe refutes the claim that Daybreak Foods was linked to his suspension. He explains that the suspension was an internal matter and not influenced by external factors. The Acting CEO asserts that the forensic investigation into Daybreak Foods was commissioned by him and that it was not stopped during his tenure as CEO. Seshibe emphasizes that the forensic investigation was conducted by Fundudzi, and he has no authority to halt its progress.

Seshibe also disputes claims that he terminated or covered up the forensic investigation, stating that he instructed Fundudzi not to duplicate specific areas of work already underway by a separate entity. He denies any involvement in terminating or covering up the investigation, maintaining that he was solely responsible for its commission.