Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has been accused of playing a key role in concealing widespread corruption, fraud, and money laundering within the provincial Department of Social Development (DSD), allegations which have cost the government hundreds of millions of rand meant for supporting NGOs. AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit, representing a whistleblower, has vowed to ensure that those responsible, including politicians, face criminal charges.
According to the unit, forensic reports detailing fraud and corruption in the allocation of funds for food bank, school uniform, and dignity pack programmes implicate several officials. Although 13 officials were suspended between September 2023 and January 2024, their suspensions have since been lifted, allowing them to return to work.
The whistleblower claims that Premier Lesufi, despite being presented with the forensic findings, allegedly chose to appoint a law firm to review the reports and exonerate the implicated individuals, rather than taking action. This move is seen as an attempt to shield those responsible from facing justice.
In a letter to Lesufi, AfriForum’s Gerrie Nel warned that such actions could be seen as obstructing justice and urged Lesufi to comply with the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act by reporting the crimes. Nel emphasized the importance of protecting whistleblowers, a responsibility the government has allegedly failed to uphold.
AfriForum spokesperson Barry Bateman expressed dismay over Lesufi’s alleged interference, suggesting that the premier’s actions may be aimed at protecting higher-level beneficiaries of the corruption. AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit is closely monitoring the situation and has not ruled out legal action to compel accountability.
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