Complaint to Ramaphosa lands IDT boss in hot water

Board chair gives Malaka written warning

- By Bongani Mdakane

Newly appointed Independent Development Trust (IDT) board chairperson Zimbini Hill has issued a stern written warning to CEO Tebogo Malaka, accusing her of breaching protocol by bypassing the board and minister to lay a direct complaint with President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Hill, who was appointed last month by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson, rebuked Malaka for her April 7 letter to Ramaphosa and his deputy, Paul Mashatile, that raised alarm over Hill's appointment and accused political leadership of meddling in IDT affairs.

“You are hereby given a written warning in that you have breached protocol by writing directly to the president...bypassing the board of trustees and the minister,” warned Hill.

“Should you commit the same offence or any other offence within six months... further disciplinary action will be taken against you.”

Malaka’s complaint to Ramaphosa questioned the legitimacy of Hill's re-appointment. “The conflicted re-appointment of Hill as chairperson... is concerning, citing unresolved allegations and a history of misconduct.”