The United National Transport Union (UNTU) has noted with concern the suspension of two senior officials at Transnet after weeks of speculation and uncertainty.
 
The Board of Transnet decided to suspend Thamsanqa Jiyane, chief officer of advanced manufacturing at Transnet Engineering, and Lindiwe Mdletshe, senior manager for strategic sourcing at Transnet Freight Rail, following a wide reported investigation done by the law firms, Werksmans and MNS Attorneys, as well as the Treasury, into allegations of impropriety linked to the R54bn purchase of locomotives from General Electric, Bombardier Transport, China South Rail and China North Rail.
 
There is still no certainty if Transnet Chief Executive Officer, Siyabonga Gama, will be suspended.
 
UNTU welcomes the steps taken by the Board of Transnet to put the allegations to the test, but the Union believes that the cloud of doubt and uncertainty is not conducive for the global investment needed in Transnet to ensure future growth.
 
UNTU therefor once again, appeals to the Chairman of the Board of Transnet, Popo Molefe, to meet with the leadership of the Union as a matter of urgency so that UNTU, the majority Union within Transnet, can be informed as to the way forward and the timeframe of the Board for the completion of this process.
 

Issued by The United National Transport Union