MPUMALANGA – ActionSA Mpumalanga provincial chairperson, Thoko Mashiane has been elected as Mpumalanga Executive Representative for the South African Association of Public Accounts Committees’ (SAAPAC).
SAAPAC is a non-profit organisation that aims to strengthen public financial management through accountability, transparency, and ethical governance. It seeks to enhance the quality and performance of Public Accounts Committees (PACs) and improve the capabilities of their members.
Feeling honoured, Mashiane told Highveld Chronicle in interview that “it’s an important platform to advance transparency, accountability, and ethical governance across South Africa”.
She continued to say that serving in SAAPAC is both a privilege and a responsibility that aligns with her commitment to improving public service accountability and strengthening democratic institutions.
“I believe in a collaborative approach within SAAPAC, as its members work best as a united team,” said Mashiane
SAAPAC also promotes information exchange on PAC issues, collaborates with the Auditor General (AG) and law enforcement to improve auditing and oversight. Further it encourages resource-sharing for best practices while fostering relationships with stakeholders to enhance public accountability and informs officials, media, and the public about PAC activities.
Mashiane has leverage experience as a former municipal manager of Ehlanzeni District Municipality, she is bringing practical insights into local government functions and the challenges they face.
“While I value teamwork, I also emphasise that I won’t simply go along with every consensus nor oppose ideas without reason. Instead, I will raise constructive concerns when necessary ensuring that my contributions are thoughtful and beneficial to the association as a whole,” she said.
“For me, it’s not about personal influence, but about advancing SAAPAC’s goals to serve the public
effectively, I am committed to promoting principles of good governance through
my role in SAAPAC.”
Mashiane, born and raised in the Mpumalanga province, pursued her higher education at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Westville Campus, focusing on local government and public finance.
This background laid the foundation for a career in governance, public finance, and community service.
Her expertise in these areas was further honed through various leadership positions, including her roles as the first deputy chairperson of South African Local Government Association (SALGA), vice chairperson of the Mpumalanga Housing Board, chairperson of the Mpumalanga Township Board, and as a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and served in the National Executive Committee (NEC), Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) and Provincial Working Committee (PWC).
Additionally, she has served as chairperson of the Mpumalanga ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) and represented Mpumalanga in the ANCWL and NEC, roles that gave her firsthand insights into the challenges faced by communities across the province.
