Ramaphosa gives SIU powers to investigate maladministration claims at Transnet
The SIU says the investigation will focus on leases potentially facilitated through unlawful or improper conduct by Transnet officials or agents.
Picture: Rejoice Ndlovu/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - Irregular contracts at Transnet are back in the crosshairs as President Cyril Ramaphosa gives the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) powers to investigate maladministration claims at the state-owned enterprise.
The latest proclamation is set to open the door for the SIU to probe the procurement processes and contractual agreements related to leasing properties belonging to or controlled by Transnet.
The SIU says the investigation will focus on leases potentially facilitated through unlawful or improper conduct by Transnet officials or agents.
This also includes establishing whether this conduct led to fruitless and wasteful expenditure or financial losses for Transnet.
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says five lease agreements have already been identified.
Among the five, is the lease agreement for the property described as film production studios, at the Carlton Skyrink building in the Joburg CBD.
"The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2014 and 23 August 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2014 and after the date of the proclamation that is pertinent to the matters under investigation or involves the same persons, entities, or contracts.”
Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption and fraud, the SIU vows to identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.