Macpherson stands firm in R800m oxygen tender probe

PUBLIC Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has vowed not to be deterred by smear campaigns, political pressure, or even threats to his life while providing an update on the ongoing investigation into the R800 million oxygen plant tender.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

“My mandate is to clean up the department and that is exactly what I intend to do relentlessly,” Macpherson said yesterday.

His remarks came after the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) filed a criminal complaint against him in January, accusing him of improperly contacting a junior employee at the Independent Development Trust (IDT) to get a report on payment delays to Lonerock Construction.

The EFF said Macpherson bypassed IDT’s board and executive leadership, undermining its governance.

Macpherson denied the allegations, calling them part of a “smear campaign”.