No evidence linking the Minister to contravention of policy on the wall or the SUV
The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa today welcomed the Auditor-General of South Africa’s (AGSA) final report, clearing him against any violation of policy or procedures, regarding the erection of a wall around his private residence and a Mercedes Benz vehicle which was falsely attributed to him.
“I welcome the Auditor-General’s report which clears my name unconditionally against any wrongdoing. While I noted with concern the continued innuendos of corruption levelled against me and my name being dragged in the mud, I nevertheless allowed the Auditor-General to conduct the investigation. Today, I feel vindicated because the truth has been confirmed.”
“I have consistently stated that I have not inappropriately benefited or abused state funds in building a wall around my private residence. Furthermore, I reiterated that I had not seen let alone driven the Mercedes Benz vehicle which was falsely attributed to me. I am therefore satisfied and further wish to thank the Auditor-General for a thorough, objective and comprehensive process,” stated the Minister.
The Auditor-General report found no evidence showing that the Minister knew where the money for the erection of the wall came from. The report, which took three months to complete, included the findings, conclusions and recommendations.
Amongst the fundamental recommendations, is that the monitoring and accountability practices between the department and the Minister be strengthened; that timely action is taken in instances of non-compliance. It further spells out that the Accounting Officer of the department should ensure that internal control mechanisms are closely implemented and monitored, that where irregular expenditure occurs, disciplinary actions be instituted against any official.
Minister Mthethwa has over the past months noted and publicly expressed his concerns over a concerted media campaign by some journalists, who continued to peddle untruthful, misleading and unfounded articles without any substantiated evidence. Throughout this ordeal, the Minister had maintained his innocence while the due processes were underway.
At the time, he cautioned against those who peddled these allegations, saying he hoped they were not confusing security measures of which, like any other Cabinet Minister he was entitled to in accordance with various legislative policies such as the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations, Ministerial Handbook, amongst others.
The Minister has now consulted his legal team and is awaiting legal opinion and advice, following this final report.
Enquiries:
Zweli Mnisi
Cell: 082 045 4024
