The Provincial Office Bearers of COSATU in Gauteng met on the weekend to amongst other things deal with corruption allegations surrounding the COVID-19 tendering process in the province and the subsequent response by government and the ANC. We have noted the decision by the ANC PEC decision to remove Boyce Maneli and Mapheto Letsie.

Whilst this action is accepted, it leaves more questions than answers particularly in view of the findings by the Provincial Integrity Commission. We view this removal with skepticism and find it bizarre and strange that people who were not found guilty have been fired.

It is not surprising that Boyce Maneli and Maphefo Letsie have appealed the decision of the ANC PEC. This decision has a potential to undermine the fight against corruption.

The Federation views this action of dismissing the two gentlemen as a smokescreen. This deliberate mismanagement of the disciplinary process is done to pacify the public and not to genuinely address the scourge of corruption in the province. It is an unconvincing act of political theatre meant to distract and defocus the community.

It will serve the ANC well to genuinely work to regain the trust of society by doing things by the book. This mishandling of this case is creating fertile a ground for a successful appeals process and possible reinstatement of the dismissed individuals.

The ANC in Gauteng must stop taking the people for granted because this will backfire at the polls.

The office bearers noted the release of service providers who benefited from COVID-19 tenders with mixed reaction. Whilst this reflects transparency post-facto, the office bearers are of the view that making public service providers without mentioning their shareholders is a farce. We call on the Premier of Gauteng to release the names of shareholders in the name of transparency.

Issued by COSATU Gauteng

Amos Vusi Monyela               

Provincial Chairperson

0794935002

Louisa Modikwe

Provincial Secretary

0661822402