Macpherson not deterred by corruption allegations, vows to go ahead with IDT probe
The Economic Freedom Fighters has also opened a case with the police about Macpherson's actions a the IDT.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson. Picture: facebook.com/DepartmentPublicWorksandinfrastructure
CAPE TOWN - Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has dismissed allegations of corruption in the running of the Independent Development Trust (IDT).
Macpherson has been accused of bribing a journalist to write negatively about the IDT - one of the department's entities.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has also opened a case with the police about Macpherson's actions at the IDT.
On Wednesday, the EFF said that Macpherson overplayed his hand when he instructed the IDT to pay one of its suppliers an outstanding invoice.
READ: DA rejects corruption allegations against Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson
Macpherson said he understood that his work to root out corruption at the IDT would get a reaction from those affected.
He said they've appointed audit firm PwC to investigate an R800-million oxygen plant tender at the IDT.
Macpherson said he couldn’t turn a blind eye when serious allegations were raised regarding the tender, and that the corruption claims or any pushback would not distract him.
Macpherson said the investigation will ascertain whether any IDT officials or other individuals “contravened laws or duties related to the administration of the tender and the appointment of contractors”.