Embattled Gauteng CFO faces prosecution

THE Gauteng Department of Infrastructure and Development faces renewed scrutiny, accused of bias for spending over R5 million to prosecute a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) who has been suspended with pay for more than a year.

- MASHUDU SADIKE [e-mail]

Meanwhile, a deputy director-general (DDG) facing more serious charges remains at work without suspension.

The CFO, whose name is known to the publication, is undergoing a disciplinary process for insubordination, dereliction of duty, and absenteeism. Meanwhile, the DDG, whose name is known to the publication, remains at work despite facing more severe charges.

These charges include gross misconduct, maladministration, and financial misconduct related to the controversial Mayibuye Primary School project in Tembisa.

The project had been plagued by delays, cost overruns, and corruption allegations.

According to a leaked charge sheet, the DDG is accused of causing the improper construction of the school without conducting a wetland study, leading to undue delays and cost overruns.

The department allegedly incurred costs of R10 060 519.73 due to the contractors’ standing time from December 2018 to March 2020.