The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has launched an investigation into alleged financial irregularities, maladministration and procurement failures linked to the construction of three schools in the Free State.
The investigation follows a presidential proclamation authorising the SIU to probe the Free State Department of Education’s procurement and contracting processes relating to the construction of Caleb Motshabi Primary School (formerly Thuto Ke Thebe Primary School), Malebogo Primary School and Tlholo Primary School. The probe covers the period from 1 March 2014 until the date of the proclamation.
According to SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho, investigators will determine whether procurement processes complied with applicable legislation, National Treasury and Provincial Treasury regulations, as well as the department’s own procurement policies and procedures.
“The investigation will review the procurement and contracting processes for construction services performed by or on behalf of the department from 1 March 2014 until the date of the proclamation,” Makgotho said.
The SIU will also investigate whether the department incurred any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure in relation to the three school construction projects.
Makgotho said the investigation will examine allegations of serious maladministration, improper conduct and possible unlawful actions involving officials, employees, contractors, service providers or any other parties connected to the projects.
The proclamation gives the SIU broad powers to investigate any related contracts, entities or individuals that may emerge during the course of the investigation, should evidence suggest they are linked to the alleged irregularities.
The investigation forms part of the SIU’s mandate to recover financial losses suffered by the state and identify evidence of criminal conduct, which can be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action where appropriate. The unit may also institute civil proceedings to recover public funds if wrongdoing is uncovered.
At this stage, the SIU has not made any findings of wrongdoing, and the investigation remains ongoing. No individuals or companies have been charged in connection with the matter.
