LIMPOPO – Reports suggest the Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA) has placed one of its senior officials on precautionary suspension following allegations of nepotism and interference in a recruitment process.

The allegations

According to reports, LEDA Executive Manager for Corporate Services Mampineng Moshidi was suspended while allegations linked to the appointment of a debt collector are being investigated.

The allegations centre on claims that interview panel scores may have been altered in favour of a close family member during the recruitment process.

LEDA’s response

LEDA has acknowledged the allegations and confirmed that the official has been placed on precautionary suspension.

The agency has, however, maintained that the suspension does not amount to a finding of guilt and that due process must be allowed to take its course.

DA weighs in

The allegations have drawn political reaction, with the DA in Limpopo calling for the matter to be investigated urgently and transparently.

DA provincial spokesperson for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Jacques Smalle, said the party welcomed the administrative action but warned against allowing the matter to become a prolonged process without accountability.

Smalle said if wrongdoing is established, disciplinary and legal action should follow without delay.

He argued that allegations affecting recruitment processes are particularly concerning in a province facing high unemployment levels and where many residents depend on fair access to job opportunities.

Smalle further said public-sector appointments should be based on merit and lawful procedure, adding that institutions tasked with economic development must maintain public trust.

The party indicated it would continue monitoring the investigation and called for a process that delivers clear outcomes and transparency.