Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s government continues to shield Loyiso Mkwana, the Department of Environment Affairs’ Chief Director for Sustainable Use of Environment, who stands accused of corruption. Mkwana is out on bail and facing charges related to the Enviro Mobi contract of R33.7 million that was irregularly awarded. He recently appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on this matter. Mkwana remains the Department’s Chief Director, performing daily duties despite the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) call for his suspension pending finalisation of the case.
This sends the wrong message that officials accused of corruption are either reshuffled to another position or remain in office, being shielded from facing the consequences of their actions. Furthermore, this indicates that the Gauteng MEC for Environment, Ewan Botha, is fully on board with officials accused of corruption working in his department.
The seriousness of the matter has been further highlighted by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) successfully obtaining a court order freezing the pension benefits of former GDARD Head of Department, Matilda Gasela, pending the finalisation of legal proceedings. The DA reiterates its call for Mkwana to be suspended pending the outcome of the court case. We have written to MEC Botha requesting clarity on Mr Mkwana’s current responsibilities and continued involvement in procurement, project oversight, and departmental processes.
A DA-led provincial government would immediately place officials implicated in corrupt activities on suspension pending the finalisation of the court case. In addition, where the official is found guilty, they would be dismissed immediately and the stolen monies recovered. Gauteng residents deserve a government that acts decisively against corruption instead of protecting officials implicated in serious wrongdoing.