ActionSA Calls on Public Works to Refer Dismissed Senior Official’s Mismanagement of R1.1 Billion to the Hawks
Press Statement by Zwakele Mncwango
ActionSA KZN Provincial Chairperson
ActionSA will write the MEC of Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer, to refer the matter relating to the dismissal of the Director of Supply Chain Management following an investigation into gross misconduct to the Hawks for a comprehensive investigation.
If indeed this employee was dismissed, it would be reasonable to assume that this erstwhile employee has a criminal case for which to answer.
The findings of the department’s investigation revealed the awarding of contracts worth R1.1 billion to a single consultancy company by the dismissed official.
While this dismissal is a step in the right direction, ActionSA believes that further action is necessary.
A detailed financial probe by the Hawks, including tracing bank transactions, will shed light on whether this individual acted alone—which we find unlikely—or in collaboration with others.
It is inconceivable that a single person could misappropriate R1.1 billion without assistance. A thorough investigation by the Hawks will uncover the truth and ensure that all those involved in this misuse of public funds are held accountable.
Furthermore, the relationship between this official and the owner/s of the consultancy company must be thoroughly investigated. Any collusion or undue influence in the awarding of these contracts must be exposed and dealt with decisively.
We believe it is time to send a strong message to public officials: taxpayer funds are not to be misused. The awarding of contracts must adhere to proper processes and comply with all legal requirements.
ActionSA Calls on Public Works to Refer Dismissed Senior Official’s Mismanagement of R1.1 Billion to the Hawks