Special Investigating Unit to Probe Allegations of Corruption in South Africa’s Tshwane Metro

Special Investigating Unit to Probe Allegations of Corruption in South Africa’s Tshwane Metro

President Ramaphosa Authorizes Investigation

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has given the green light to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the Tshwane metro. The probe is particularly concerned with the Rooiwal wastewater treatment project, a tender said to be worth over R250 million. The decision has been welcomed by the political party ActionSA, which has been pushing for an investigation into the matter.

Controversial Businessman in the Spotlight

The tender for the Rooiwal project was awarded to several companies, including Blackhead Consulting, owned by businessman Edwin Sodi. Sodi is no stranger to controversy, as he is currently facing charges of fraud, corruption, theft, and money laundering relating to a separate R255 million Free State asbestos deal.

The Rooiwal Project: A Tale of Failure and Tragedy

The Rooiwal wastewater treatment project was intended to provide clean drinking water to parts of Tshwane around Hammanskraal. However, the project was not executed to standard, resulting in at least 15 deaths from a cholera outbreak in May. ActionSA’s Gauteng chairperson, Funzi Ngobeni, stated that the investigation was long overdue and reminded the public that ActionSA had submitted a report from the commission of inquiry into the Hammanskraal water crisis last year.

SIU Investigation: Not Just About Rooiwal

The SIU’s investigation is not confined to the Rooiwal project. The unit will also scrutinize any unauthorized, irregular, and fruitless and wasteful expenditure by the Tshwane metro or the state. The SIU plans to pass on any evidence from its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action, reinforcing the government’s commitment to rooting out corruption.