Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson is scheduled to address the media on Wednesday at the Cape Town Central Police Station regarding serious allegations against Tebogo Malaka, the suspended Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Development Trust (IDT). 

The accusations stem from reports alleging Malaka attempted to bribe a journalist to suppress negative coverage.

“This follows serious allegations that Malaka sought to bribe a journalist to halt negative reporting,” the department’s statement read.

“The Minister will address the media following months of facing what is now likely a paid-for public campaign aimed at discrediting his efforts to bring stability and good governance to the entity, which plays a critical role in delivering social infrastructure across South Africa.”

The announcement follows a recent forensic investigation into the IDT’s procurement practices, particularly regarding the controversial R800 million Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Oxygen Plant tender.

During a media briefing a week ago, Macpherson revealed the investigation’s alarming findings, prompting disciplinary and criminal actions against officials involved.

The forensic report, conducted by global consultancy firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), uncovered widespread irregularities in the procurement process for the PSA Oxygen Plant project. 

With a total budget of R836 million, the project aimed to supply oxygen systems to 60 hospitals nationwide, with R528 million allocated directly to the IDT.

“Multiple companies awarded contracts lacked proper certification, verifiable contact details, or legitimate operational capacity,” Macpherson explained. 

“These findings raise serious questions about the integrity of the procurement process and the oversight within the IDT.”

Macpherson stated the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, vowing to hold those responsible accountable.

“We will not tolerate corruption or malpractice that jeopardises public health and infrastructure development,” he asserted.

Macpherson announced that disciplinary proceedings are already underway against Malaka and other implicated officials, with referrals to the Hawks for criminal investigations. 

He stated that these proceedings aim to ensure accountability and justice.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics

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