A massive political controversy has erupted in South Africa after a company formed just 48 hours before was awarded a R350 billion concession to build an international airport in the Free State. The deal, granted to Aerocorp Solutions, has sparked allegations of corruption and calls for an immediate investigation.
The company was founded by businessman KT Molefe, who is known to have connections to powerful politicians. The decision to award one of the largest public infrastructure contracts in the country’s history to a company with no track record has drawn fierce criticism from opposition parties and civil society.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has been vocal in its condemnation. DA spokesperson Solly Malatsi called the deal “reckless” and stated, “it smacks of corruption.” The party has formally requested investigations by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Auditor-General.
While the government ministers involved have not been officially named, sources indicate that three senior ANC officials pushed the deal through. This has led to accusations that the ruling party’s patronage networks are involved.
The ANC has responded cautiously. Party spokeswoman Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said the ANC would wait for official investigations to conclude but reiterated the party’s “commitment to clean governance.”
Public reaction has been swift and angry, with many on social media labeling the deal “daylight robbery.” The controversy is particularly sensitive in a country struggling with high poverty and unemployment.
Economists have also questioned the project’s feasibility. Dr. Nthabiseng Dube, an economist, noted that the mostly rural Free State has minimal need for such expensive air transport infrastructure, suggesting it appears more like a “political vanity project.”
The SIU is expected to release a preliminary report in the coming weeks. The outcome could lead to criminal charges and has the potential to become one of the most significant procurement scandals in South Africa’s recent history.