Johannesburg – The Gauteng Department of Social Development on Wednesday said it was investigating how a group of “unknown” individuals were appointed to supply school uniforms.
The alleged anomaly came to light when a group arrived at the department’s offices seeking payment for work, which they claimed to have done.
Commenting on the matter, the department said it was aware of an incident and was investigating.
“These individuals were reportedly selected by certain officials to produce school uniforms, despite a tender being in place of which successful bidders were appointed as service providers,” the department said.
“This situation raises concerns about yet another incident of corruption and irregularities within the department.”
Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Agriculture MEC Mbali Hlophe said while the department “understands their frustration”, there must be an emphasis on “transparency and accountability” in all its dealings.
“At present, there is no formal contract between the department and these individuals, and they have not been forthcoming in exposing who the officials are who appointed them, and what competitive bidding process was taken resulting in their selection,” MEC Hlophe said.
“We have initiated an investigation to identify wrongdoing and verify the work claims.
“Despite our repeated requests over the past three months, the group has been reluctant to cooperate, which is concerning and curious.
“Our priority remains to uphold the integrity of our processes and hold accountable those responsible for any breaches of regulations”.
The MEC added: “Rest assured, we are taking this matter seriously and will work diligently to uncover the truth and ensure compliance with Treasury regulations”.
MEC Hlophe alleged that it was “characteristic” of Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) Refiloe N’tseke to turn a blind eye towards wrongdoers and allegations of corruption.
“Evidenced in her being a member of the Social Development portfolio committee for a decade and remaining mum on the seven investigations that have taken place,” said MEC Hlophe.
“She, this time around, attempts to pressure the department into making irregular payments to individuals [who] the department has no contract in place with, instead of speaking against the glaring corruption of individuals been given work to do in dark corners with no due process followed as Treasury regulations.
“We emphasise once again that the individuals must come clean and identify the official/s they claim appointed them to do work, so the wrongdoers and/or collusion can be dealt with,” said the MEC.
The DA MPL N’tseke has yet to respond to the allegations that she allowed dodgy deals under her watch.