The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in the Northern Cape welcomes the arrest of the acting Head of Department in the province. The HOD briefly appeared at the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court today, 10th March 2021 on charges of corruption by facilitating irregular lease of state building amounting to R96 million without following proper procedures.

Nonetheless, the Federation is also disturbed by the fact that this matter that dates back to March 2014 is only now, after seven years, being prosecuted. This case is but one among others which involve senior managers in the province.

There are many of them who are currently enjoying the privilege of either a redeployment within provincial departments or suspension with full pay and benefits.

The snail pace in which the South African Police Services (SAPS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Hawks tend to deal with corruption is totally discouraging. The Federation is not impressed by the bark that lacks the bite from the Premier when it comes to fighting corruption.

We demand thorough investigations of all these matters, including the PPE scandal, that robbed the country millions of Rands. We demand the arrest of municipality officials who deduct the workers’ pension fund monies and fail to pay such over to the Fund.

COSATU therefore urge the Provincial government to walk the talk and to stop playing lip-service, the law enforcement agencies need to speed up the processes of arrest and prosecution of criminals. All those who are found guilty should receive maximum sentences.

Issued by COSATU Northern Cape

For any further clarity contact Orapeleng Moraladi (Provincial Secretary) on 078 4526891/0609785651