The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has noted with concern allegations that the Moriel Infrastructure Group obtained multiple gradings from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), all on the same day.
This followed a social media video that surfaced wherein Lawrence Mudzinganyama, who was associated with the company, was depicted in a threatening altercation with women that can be heard in the background.
In a statement, the Board of the multi-disciplinary engineering, procurement and construction contracting group said it had resolved to terminate its association with Mudzinganyama “with immediate effect, following the disturbing incident at Vlamo restaurant on Friday evening.”
The CIBD is an agency of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure created to lead industry stakeholders in construction development, with its role being to facilitate and promote the construction industry's improved contribution to South Africa’s economy and society.
The Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure said allegations suggest that the Moriel Infrastructure Group may not have met all the requirements for the gradings.
“Further allegations suggest that the company may not have met the requirements for these gradings, which may subsequently have been used to secure contracts from various spheres of government,” the Ministry said in a statement on Sunday.
The Minister has directed the CIDB to immediately investigate the matter and report back to him at the earliest opportunity.
Mudzinganyama served as Moriel Infrastructure Group’s Executive Chairman and a Director.
“He will no longer represent, speak for, or act on behalf of Moriel Infrastructure Group in any capacity.
“The Board took this decision in accordance with the company's commitment to the highest standards of conduct, accountability and respect. The behaviour shown in the footage is inconsistent with the organisation's values.
"Moriel Infrastructure Group unequivocally condemns violence, threats, abuse and intimidation directed at women and vulnerable people. The company recognises the seriousness of gender-based violence in South Africa and remains committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for its employees, stakeholders and the wider community,” the company said.
– SAnews.gov.za
