/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng is demanding that Premier Panyaza Lesufi request the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate the Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF).
It is of utmost importance that the GPF be investigated by an independent body and not by officials within the Department of Human Settlements.
The Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Lebogang Maile, has launched an investigation into this matter. However, we fear political interference and that they will try to hide any wrongdoing, as has happened with many investigations undertaken by the Gauteng Provincial Government. Furthermore, this investigation might take longer, resulting in those implicated resigning to escape disciplinary action.
Recent media reports indicated that Deputy President Paul Mashitile’s son-in-law benefited from a housing loan from the GPF, which is an entity of the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements.
The loans that Mashitile’s son-in-law received were during the time he was the MEC for Human Settlements in Gauteng.
It is alleged that Nonkwelo Investments benefitted from loans from the GPF between 2013 and 2017, totaling at least R30 million.
The SIU must launch an investigation as a matter of urgency. The 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 that are meant to uplift residents who are unable to access dignified housing without some assistance from the government.
If the SIU finds that anyone has unlawfully benefited 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
EMAIL THIS ARTICLE SAVE THIS ARTICLE ARTICLE ENQUIRY
To subscribe email subscriptions@creamermedia.co.za or click here
To advertise email advertising@creamermedia.co.za or click here
