The Ministry for Performance Monitoring and Evaluation has noted media reports around the use of the state credit card and wish to clarify the issue. The coverage is based on a response to a parliamentary question posed to the Minister.
The Minister has consciously used the state credit card for personal use with a clear understanding that he will repay the expenses.
The Minister made a request to his office to use the credit card as he did not have his personal belongings with him and had no access to any money. He subsequently instructed officials to make arrangements for repayment in full, such instruction was carried out and the repayment was deducted from his salary in November. It is important to note that the credit card is held by officials and make it available to the Minister when the need arises.
The account in September was overdrawn by R5 361.40, and his personal expenses were of R2 486.55. However, the Minister decided that since the account is overdrawn he will pay the overdrawn amount in full, including some of the official expenses. The rest of the expenses incurred were for official purposes.
The Ministerial Handbook provides for public office bearers, including Director-General, to be provided with a corporate credit card. The Minister was offered the credit card in line with the handbook from the department and he accepted it.
Enquiries:
Harold Maloka
Spokesperson
Cell: 082 847 9799
Issued by: The Presidency
24 November 2009
Source: The Presidency (http://www.thepresidency.gov.za)
