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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng demands that a forensic investigation be launched into the Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF).

This follows damning media reports that the Deputy President, Paul Mashitile’s son-in-law, benefited from a housing loan from the GPF, an entity of the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements.

The loans that Mashitile’s son-in-law received were during the time that the Deputy President was the MEC for Human Settlements in Gauteng.

It’s believed that Nonkwelo Investments benefited from loans from the GPF between 2013 and 2017, totaling at least R30 million.

This is very worrying, as earlier this year, questions arose in the department of Human Settlements as to the exact functions and role of the GPF.

A forensic investigation must be conducted as a matter of urgency. The forensic investigation should look into all operations of the GPF from 2013 to 2023.

It is unacceptable that friends and family members of high-ranking government officials unduly benefit from loans meant to uplift residents who are unable to access dignified housing without some assistance from the government.

If it is found during this forensic investigation that anyone has unlawfully benefitted from any GPF loans, then this money must be fully recovered. Disciplinary action should also be taken against all the officials involved in awarding this loan, and a criminal investigation should be instituted.

Issued by Mervyn Cirota MPL - DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Human Settlements