500 corrupt firms milking the State despite SIU warning

Failure to blacklist errant companies a 'clear indication of no political will to address corruption'

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

THE South African government has come under severe criticism after it emerged that nearly 500 companies remain eligible to trade with the state, despite recommendations stemming from investigations by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana disclosed in parliamentary replies to ActionSA MP Alan Beesley that only 18 companies have been barred from engaging in business with the government.

Beesley strongly condemned the government's inaction, stating that it was outrageous that so few companies identified by the SIU remain free to trade with the state.

"The failure to blacklist errant and corrupt companies is a clear indication that there is no political will to address corruption.

"With zero consequences, corruption will continue unabated, and all South Africans will continue to pay the price," he said.

He was reacting to written responses by Godongwana when he enquired about the 466 companies and individuals that have not yet been blacklisted and not yet included on the National Treasury's Restricted Supplier and Tender Defaulter Report.