Cape Town – The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is expected to hand over 20 reports into substantial allegations of corruption and maladministration to President Jacob Zuma at the end of the month, with 16 others expected at the end of next month.
The value of the procurement matters where irregularities had been found totalled R153.7 million. In this regard, 38 matters have been referred to the police for criminal investigations.
Other matters have also been sent to the National Prosecuting Authority, and the first investigations into the breach of the Public Finance Management Act were being considered, the SIU told Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development today.
Briefing on its strategic plan, annual performance plan and budget for 2013/2014, the SIU said 41 disciplinary matters have been referred to the Department of Public Service and Administration to follow-up.
Investigations have also shown that 67 percent of irregularities uncovered occurred in supply chain management.
Pressed by MPs for more information, SIU acting head Nomvula Mokgatla said she could not disclose details of reports meant for the President. Legally, President Zuma is the only one in South Africa who can issue a Presidential Proclamation asking the SIU to investigate allegations. Only he can legally release details of reports given to him.
An amendment to the SIU Act in October 2012 means that the unit can now institute civil litigation, meaning that the SIU is now focusing on civil litigation. A new Civil Litigation section, staffed by two people but expected to grow, has been launched.
On litigation, committee chairman Luwellyn Landers said he was aware of the need to win cases in court and understood why the big guns had to be used.
The SIU employs 583 people, of which 57 percent are African, 7 percent coloured, 11 percent Indian, and 25 percent white. Overall the SIU employs 304 males and 279 females.
The unit has 85 vacancies which are expected to be filled soon. – SAnews.gov.za
