The MEC for Social Development, Nonhlanhla Khoza has announced the suspension of officials implicated in the alleged irregular procurement of blankets and personal protective equipment.

This follows a damning forensic investigation report conducted into the procurement of the goods.

ALSO READ: Sassa introduces payment method changes for Covid-19 social relief of distress grant

The report had recommended that disciplinary action be taken against the Acting Head of Department, Acting Supply Chain Manager, Cluster Chief Directors and Supply Chain Management (SCM) officials.

MEC Khoza acknowledged the work done by a team of investigators set up by the Provincial Executive Council of KwaZulu-Natal to unearth malfeasance in the procurement of goods to be used in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

The investigation was prompted by a number of allegations that were reported in the media.

This resulted in the Provincial Executive requesting Provincial Treasury to conduct a forensic investigation into the alleged irregularities.

MEC Khoza has welcomed the report, saying the department would ensure that all those implicated were held to account.  She added that the suspension of officials, including an employee in her office, showed commitment that the department would not tolerate corruption.

“As a department we were taken aback by the outcome of the forensic investigation report, as presented by Premier Sihle Zikalala.  The information unearthed by the investigation points to the high level of recklessness by officials tasked with safeguarding taxpayers’ monies.

“I have since instructed the Head of Department, as an Accounting Officer, Nelly Vilakazi, to ensure that the recommendations of the report are implemented to the letter.

We take a strong exception to corruption and maladministration, especially during this period when the people are battling the scourge of Covid-19 and the ripple effect it has on other aspects of life – MEC for Social Development, Nonhlanhla Khoza

“We will ensure that taxpayers’ money that was spent irregularly is recovered.  Not only will we deal with officials, but we will also deal with companies that were involved in the process.”

“We have also opened two criminal charges with Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks),” said MEC Khoza.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram