This follows news that Sokutu was drunk on duty during the annual Chelsea Flower Show in London, May this year.
This was confirmed by the Minister of Water & Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa’s office.
To rub salt into the wounds, Sokutu was on sabbatical leave-without the permission of the board, the fact that also irked the Minister.
“The Minister would like to thank Mr Sokutu for his excellent leadership as Chairperson for the past 6 years, during which he steered SANBI through some of the most difficult times of change,” read the press statement.
A trained Botanist, ex-Public Servant and a Businessman, Sokutu contributed to the great success that SANBI has achieved in the implementation of its programmes.
Nana Magomola has been appointed the acting-Chairperson while the process of appointment of a new Chairperson is followed.
Sokutu couldn’t be reached for comment.
