SIU Launches Investigation Into Free State Education Department School Projects
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been authorised to investigate allegations of maladministration and financial mismanagement involving the Free State Department of Education.
The probe will focus on the construction of Caleb Motshabi Primary School, formerly known as Thuto Ke Thebe Primary School, as well as Malebogo Primary School and Tlholo Primary School. The investigation covers the period from 1 March 2014 up to the date of the proclamation.
According to the SIU, investigators will examine whether procurement processes for the school construction projects complied with relevant legislation, National Treasury and Provincial Treasury regulations, and the department’s internal procurement policies.
The investigation will also determine whether the department incurred any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless or wasteful expenditure during the implementation of the projects.
In addition, the SIU will assess whether departmental officials, employees, contractors, service providers or any other parties involved engaged in unlawful, improper or irregular conduct.
The scope of the investigation also allows investigators to examine any related contracts, individuals or entities identified during the course of the inquiry.
Meanwhile, the SIU has expanded its existing investigation into procurement processes at the Great Kokstad Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.
The amended proclamation extends the investigation period to 5 June 2020, rather than 1 January 2022, and includes two additional procurement contracts. These relate to the supply and delivery of laptops and desktop computers, as well as the supply and renewal of software licences.
The SIU said the municipal investigation will continue to examine allegations of serious maladministration, irregular expenditure, fraud, corruption and unlawful conduct involving municipal officials, suppliers, service providers and any other individuals or entities linked to the contracts.