Why did Willie Aucamp file a complaint against Dion George? Here’s what to know

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, has formally approached the Public Protector to investigate his predecessor, Dion George, over alleged misuse of state resources and the circulation of what he describes as a fabricated whistleblower report during George’s time in office.

The complaint, filed on Friday, December 26, follows media revelations that Aucamp had requested an independent probe into actions taken within the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) in the period leading up to his appointment as minister. The allegations surfaced publicly after a City Press report published on Sunday, December 28.

What Aucamp Is Alleging

According to Aucamp, shortly after assuming office in November, he became aware of an investigation allegedly initiated under George’s leadership into his private business affairs. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment later described the probe as baseless, suggesting it was politically motivated and aimed at undermining Aucamp’s credibility before his ministerial appointment was ratified by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Central to the controversy is a whistleblower report that allegedly accused Aucamp of links to the lion breeding industry, an association he has consistently denied. The department has maintained that no evidence was found to support claims that Aucamp was involved in illegal lion farming or captive wildlife facilities. The whistleblower report that triggered the inquiry reportedly disappeared during the process.

In his complaint, Aucamp also requested that the Public Protector examine the conduct of Shelton Mollentze, George’s former adviser and acting chief of staff, and Traverse le Goff, George’s former personal assistant, over their alleged roles in the matter.

Aucamp: “I Will Not Shy Away From My Duty”

In a public statement, Aucamp said his decision to approach the Public Protector was guided by his constitutional duty as a minister.

He stressed that allegations of misuse of public funds must be treated seriously, regardless of the rank or past position of those involved. According to Aucamp, the use of state resources for personal or political purposes is unlawful, and only an independent investigation can determine whether such abuse occurred.

The department added that no further details of the complaint would be released at this stage to avoid prejudicing the investigation.

Public Protector Confirms Receipt

The Office of the Public Protector, led by Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, confirmed that it has received Aucamp’s complaint. Acting spokesperson Ndili Msoki said the matter is currently being assessed in line with the Public Protector South Africa (PPSA) investigation procedures.

This confirmation marks a significant escalation in what has become a widening internal dispute within the Democratic Alliance (DA).

DA Infighting and Leadership Tensions

George was removed from office in November following a request by DA leader John Steenhuisen, amid allegations of underperformance and internal complaints. Since his removal, divisions within the party have become increasingly public, with rival camps exchanging accusations through the media.

George, who has held senior roles within the DA since 2005 and currently serves as the party’s federal finance chair, has faced allegations ranging from bullying and psychological intimidation of staff to excessive international travel, discriminatory conduct in his office, and sexual misconduct. He has denied all claims and has filed a defamation lawsuit against News24.

The DA’s federal executive has since resolved to refer the dispute to the party’s federal legal commission for further investigation, raising concerns that the ongoing feud could destabilise the party ahead of its 2026 elective congress.

Wildlife Industry Concerns Resurface

The controversy has also reignited scrutiny of Aucamp’s perceived links to the wildlife breeding and hunting sector. Environmental organisations and animal welfare groups, including the NSPCA, have previously expressed concern about his appointment, urging transparency and proof that he holds no undisclosed interests in the captive wildlife industry.

Aucamp has acknowledged past associations with members of the wildlife community but has denied any conflict of interest or involvement in illegal wildlife activities.

Responses From Dion George

George declined to comment directly on the Public Protector complaint. However, he told City Press that he did not authorise any investigation into Aucamp and denied allegations of abusing state resources for personal or political purposes. Mollentze has also rejected claims of misconduct.

As the Public Protector begins its assessment, the outcome of the complaint could have significant political implications—both for accountability within the DFFE and for the balance of power inside South Africa’s main opposition party.

FAQ

Q: Why did Willie Aucamp approach the Public Protector?
A: Aucamp alleges that state resources were misused under Dion George’s leadership and that a fabricated whistleblower report was used to undermine his appointment as minister.

Q: What role does the whistleblower report play in the complaint?
A: The report allegedly accused Aucamp of links to the lion breeding industry. The department says no evidence supported the claims, and the report later disappeared.

Q: Has the Public Protector begun investigating?
A: The office has confirmed receipt of the complaint and says it is currently assessing the matter in line with standard procedures.

Q: How has Dion George responded?
A: George has denied authorising any investigation into Aucamp and rejected allegations of abusing state resources.

Q: Could this affect DA leadership ahead of 2026?
A: Yes. The dispute has deepened factional tensions within the DA and may influence internal power dynamics ahead of the party’s elective congress.