Bheki Cele cleared of wrongdoing related to 2023 Rugby World Cup trip to Paris

Former Police Minister Bheki Cele has been cleared of any wrongdoing related to his 2023 trip to the Rugby World Cup in Paris. The findings were revealed in a report released by Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka, following a complaint lodged by the Democratic Alliance (DA).

The opposition party had accused Cele of breaching the Executive Members’ Ethics Code by using public funds to finance his overseas travel, accompanied by his executive assistant. The DA further claimed that the trip had no bearing on Cele’s responsibilities as police minister and that his alleged acceptance of sponsorship from SuperSport could be construed as a conflict of interest.

However, after an investigation, the Public Protector found that these allegations were unsubstantiated and that Cele’s conduct was within the bounds of the law and ministerial protocol.

Bheki Cele

Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds

The controversy began in late 2023 when Cele, then the sitting Minister of Police, was seen attending a Rugby World Cup match in Paris, which sparked questions around the purpose of his visit. His presence at a major international sporting event—seemingly unrelated to policing or national security—drew criticism, especially in light of ongoing issues back home, such as high crime rates and police under-resourcing.

The DA quickly acted, filing a complaint with the Office of the Public Protector. In their submission, they alleged that Cele’s trip was not official business and that he had abused public resources. They also raised concerns about the potential sponsorship element, suggesting that Cele may have received benefits from SuperSport, which, if true, could create a perception of bias or inappropriate influence.

Public Protector’s Findings

In her report, Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka rejected the DA’s claims. She stated that there was no evidence to suggest that Cele acted inconsistently with the responsibilities of his office or the ethical code guiding members of the executive.

“The allegation that Mr. Cele acted in a manner that is inconsistent with his office when he used public funds to attend the Rugby World Cup in 2023 is unsubstantiated,” Gcaleka said.

The report clarified that ministers are permitted to travel internationally in both official and representational capacities and that ministers and their deputies may be accompanied by support staff on such trips when necessary. The investigation found that Cele’s travel had followed proper channels, with appropriate documentation and approvals.

Sponsorship Claims Also Dismissed

As for the claim that Cele accepted sponsorship from SuperSport, the Public Protector’s office said there was no proof that he received any form of direct or indirect sponsorship that influenced his actions or decision-making.

The report emphasized the importance of relying on concrete evidence, rather than assumptions or public speculation, when determining whether executive members have acted improperly.

Political Fallout and Reactions

The DA has expressed disappointment with the Public Protector’s ruling, stating that they will study the full report and consider their legal options. Party spokespersons argue that even if the trip was procedurally allowed, it sends the wrong message when a police minister is seen enjoying international events while South Africans grapple with violent crime and an overstretched law enforcement system.

However, Cele’s supporters welcomed the ruling, saying it vindicated him from what they called a politically motivated smear campaign.

Conclusion

While the Public Protector’s report clears Bheki Cele of ethical misconduct, the incident has reignited broader debates about accountability, ministerial spending, and the perception of privilege among government officials. The matter may be legally closed, but politically, the scrutiny on ministerial conduct—especially involving international travel—remains ongoing.