What is the truth behind the DGs suspension?
Fact 1 A complaint was laid with the Public Service Commission against the Director-General of the Department of Public Enterprises for alledged unethical behaviour concerning the process recruitment process for Director: Security and Facilities Management.
Fact 2 The Minister received a letter from the Public Service Commission recording the complaint and requesting the Minister to investigate.
Fact 3 The Department procured the services of a senior investigator to investigate the allegations arising from the complaint. The procurement process concerning the appointment of the investigator took a few weeks in the ordinary course.
Fact 4 The Investigation Report recommended that disciplinary action be taken against the DG.
Fact 5 The Report was referred to the President in terms of the Public Service Act 1994, which provides that the appointment and career incidents of a head of a national department shall be dealt with by the President.
Fact 6 The President delegated the matter to Minister Lamola to take disciplinary steps and all ancilliary attendances.
Fact 7 Having considered the matter, Minister Lamola decided to i) place the DG on precautionary suspension, ii) required that he hand over all work-related tools and/or equipment in his possession that were assigned for the execution of his duties, and iii) instituted a disciplinary process against the DG.
Further updates in this regard can be obtained from the Minister of Justice and Correctional Service.
Fact 8 The matter has unfortunately attracted adverse media attention.
Minister Gordhan welcomes the opportunity to submit his own affidavit to the Labour Court where the matter will be properly ventilated.
The Department of Enterprises (DPE) notes with extreme disappointment articles and radio news reports quoting the suspended Director-General where he accuses Minister Pravin Gordhan of unlawfully removing him from his position. He asserts this was because he was an obstacle to a programme involving the sale of South African Airways.
The allegations, which are disputed, are most unfortunate and it is essential that due process take its course.
The Minister of Public Enterprises is a dedicated public servant whose service to the country and track record speaks for itself. The Minister will not be deterred from testing alleged corruption and other malfeasance within SOCs and within his own Department without fear, favour or prejudice.
For Media Enquiries contact Richard.mantu@dpe.gov.za or 012 431 1203
