SIU cooperating with public protector investigation
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has noted with concern concerted effort by Independent Media, in particular journalist Gcwalisile Khanyile and Daily News, to discredit the SIU by publishing a series of malicious news articles.
In its latest endeavor to discredit the SIU, Independent Media/Daily News has recycled the Sunday Times article that was published last year relating to the procurement of 1 600 cloth masks for R58 000. In the recycled article titled “EXCLUSIVE: Public Protector probes the SIU over PPE corruption”, Independent Media/Daily News desperately tries to link the Public Protector investigation with SIU’s Digital Vibes communication tender investigation outcomes, especially on the use of WhatsApp.
The article state: “The Sources close to the matter have accused the SIU of “having double standards” after it allegedly failed to take action against its own CFO. Interestingly, in its investigation into the Digital Vibes saga, the SIU found that former health minister Zweli Mkhize’s use of a WhatsApp text was improper as he was giving instructions to former director-general Precious Matsoso – but has allegedly failed to discipline one of its own for a similar offence.”
As SIU has reported before, the outcome of the SIU Digital Vibes Contract investigation is now a subject of adjudication at the Special Tribunal. SIU will therefore not comment on it. Any party that has an interest in the matter is free to approach the Special Tribunal and apply to be party to the civil proceedings and present their views in the proceedings.
The procurement of masks was independently investigated by the Auditor General and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (the Hawks). The scope of investigation included whether the SIU Chief Financial Officer had any conflicts of interest with the service provider.
In a letter dated 28 October 2020, the Auditor General indicated that no irregularities were found in the procurement of 1 600 masks. The Hawks handed investigation docket to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for a decision to prosecute. The NPA declined to prosecute as there were no prospects of success.
Therefore, the SIU is satisfied that the matter has been fully investigated by two independent government agencies, and no irregularities were found in the allegations made against the CFO. However, the SIU will cooperate with the Public Protector investigation on the matter and respond accordingly.
On 15 November 2021, Independent Media/Daily News again published an article linked to Digital Vibes investigation titled “Digital Vibes: SIU work may have been shoddy- public law expert”, which the SIU views it as nothing but another attempt to discredit the organisation. SIU responded and refuted these allegations as being baseless.
The SIU is aware that the rate at which we are producing results and holding people to account for their actions, we will endure malicious reporting aimed at tarnishing SIU reputation. The SIU will not be deterred by such reporting and the SIU’s resolve is strengthened to investigate corruption, maladministration and malpractice without fear, favour or prejudice.
Source: Government of South Africa