Human Settlements Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has appointed Abbey Chikane as caretaker chairperson of the National Home Builders’ Registration Council (NHBRC).

Minister Sisulu appointed Chikane after placing the chairperson of the NHBRC, Advocate Brenda Madumise, on leave of absence with immediate effect following allegations that appeared in the media in November 2014.

According to the media report, Madumise was the channel for what appears to be a corrupt payment by Czech entrepreneur and fugitive Radovan Krejcir in 2009.

In an affidavit dated 16 April 2011, Madumise admitted she received R1 million in cash from Krejcir who, in exchange, allegedly expected to have his asylum application fast-tracked.

The Minister said she would like to conclude this matter as soon as possible to protect the integrity of the chairperson and that of the NHBRC.

– SAnews.gov.za