Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) to lay criminal charges against former RAF CEO Collins Letsoalo after he failed to appear before the Committee today. If he does not appear tomorrow, the DA says SCOPA must immediately proceed under section 17 of the Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament Act.
SCOPA went to great lengths to ensure Letsoalo was properly summoned. After he provided incorrect addresses in an apparent attempt to avoid service, the Committee secured permission from the Secretary of Parliament to serve the summons by email, online, and via notice affixed to his residence.
SCOPA’s legal adviser confirms that Letsoalo is fully aware of the summons, a fact reinforced by his own lawyers who challenged its legality.
Refusing to appear before Parliament in these circumstances is a criminal offence. Letsoalo’s failure to attend cannot be treated lightly, given the serious allegations of mismanagement and misconduct under his watch.
Evidence presented to SCOPA shows that since 2020, Letsoalo’s actions at the RAF created billions in contingent liabilities and delayed compensation for thousands of claimants. Employees report a toxic work environment, including bullying, harassment, and vindictive suspensions.
Many staff have had their careers and livelihoods destroyed. Reports also suggest he treated the RAF as a personal fiefdom, using state-paid bodyguards to run personal errands.
Parliament must act decisively. Allowing Letsoalo to ignore a lawful summons would undermine accountability and prolong the harm caused to claimants, employees, and service providers.
Regards
Patrick Atkinson MP
DA Spokesperson on SCOPA