Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has suspended Health Department head Lesiba Arnold Malotana after corruption claims linked him to dodgy tender deals at Tembisa Hospital.
The decision came after a shocking report from the Special Investigating Unit(SIU) exposed massive looting worth about R2 billion through shady contracts and irregular payments.
The report revealed that some service providers scored tenders without following proper rules, leading to serious fraud and corruption.
Three syndicates, Hangwani Morgan Maumela, Rudolph Mazibuko and another unnamed group were found to be behind the scheme that drained funds meant for healthcare.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) had been calling for Malotana’s removal, saying he and other officials pocketed more than R10 million in bribes.
Government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said the province supports the SIU’s work and remains firm on promoting accountability and clean governance.Lesufi has since appinted Dr Darion Barclay from Cogta as the new Health boss to stabilise the fepartment.
He added that on Thursday, 16 October, his office will publish the MECs’ performance agreements to push for transparency and honesty in government.
Sub-Editor: Matlala Kgaugelo
