The Board of Transnet has served letters of intention to place on precautionary suspension three senior employees, Transnet Group Chief Executive Mr Siyabonga Gama, Transnet Engineering Chief Executive, Mr Thamsanqa Jiyane and Transnet Executive Manager Ms Lindiwe Mdletshe.

Reports from Werksmans Attorneys, Mncedisi Ndlovu & Sedumedi Attorneys and Fundudzi Forensic Investigators, revealed various acts of possible misconduct against the three employees.

These reports recommended further investigations to be conducted to establish the extent of the misconduct. The Transnet Board contemplates placing the employees on precautionary suspension until the finalization of the further investigations and disciplinary enquiries.

Misconduct identified includes amongst others contraventions of:

• the Constitution of the Republic Of South Africa
• PFMA
• PPPFA and its regulations
• Transnet's internal procurement policies in the issuance of the RFPs,
• the Companies Act & Fiduciary Duties,
• Improper changing of evaluation criteria and failure to comply with government policy on local content requirements.

With regard to Mr Gama, there are allegations that he wrongfully obtained his MBA with the help of a service provider to Transnet.

In view of the seriousness of the alleged transgressions, the Transnet Board is concerned that the continued presence of the three employees, given their seniority and influence might interfere with and jeopardise the investigation.

The Transnet Board has given the three employees until the close of business on Monday, 20 August 2018 to make written submissions on why they should not be suspended.

Issued by Transnet