The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is poised to launch separate investigations into the State Information Technology Agency (Sita) and Bushbuckridge Local Municipality (BLM).

Lowvelder reports that this follows President Cyril Ramaphosa signing two proclamations authorising the corruption-fighting unit to probe the two entities.

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says the agency will investigate allegations of maladministration and corruption in Sita, focusing on the procurement of a turnkey software asset management solution and integrated logistics support services.

“The SIU will assess whether the procurement process adhered to National Treasury guidelines or if it was tainted by irregularities, lack of transparency or wasteful expenditure. Additionally, the investigation will examine any unlawful or improper conduct by Sita employees, suppliers, or other entities involved in the contract,” says Kganyago.

“The investigation period spans from July 13, 2017, to May 16, 2025, including any relevant conduct before or after this time frame,” says Kganyago.

He adds that the investigation at the municipality will zero in on serious maladministration and unlawful conduct related to a street paving contract for the Lillydale Phase 1 project.

“The SIU aims to address allegations regarding the fairness, competitiveness, transparency, equity and cost-effectiveness of the procurement process – examining whether any applicable legislation, National Treasury guidelines, or municipal policies were violated. Additionally, the investigation will scrutinise any instances of unauthorised, irregular, fruitless or wasteful expenditure,” says Kganyago.

He says the investigation will examine improper conduct by municipal officials, employees, suppliers or service providers, and determine whether such conduct resulted in financial losses for the municipality or the state.

Kganyago says any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during the investigations will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption and fraud, the SIU is committed to identifying systematic failures and recommending measures to prevent future losses. Under the [Special Investigating Unit and Special Tribunals Act 74 OF 1996], the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration,” Kganyago says.

BLM spokesperson Fhumulani Thovhakale says the municipality never received formal communication from the SIU regarding the matter.

‘‘We only read about the investigation in the media and we shall, therefore, await a formal letter before giving any comment,” says Thovhakale.

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