Over R2 Billion in Irregular Expenditure at SITA

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) acknowledges the release of the Public Service Commission’s (PSC) investigation report regarding governance issues at the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). The EFF sees this report as a vital advancement in understanding the significant decline within this essential state agency. The findings reveal over R2 billion in irregular expenditures, a tender attrition rate of 25.2%, and fundamental procurement issues, reinforcing the EFF’s longstanding assertion that SITA is a hub of extensive theft and deliberate sabotage of state functions.

The EFF has persistently highlighted the necessity for consistent accountability measures and the urgent need to address the leadership gaps in all State-Owned Enterprises. This report substantiates our view that the problems at SITA are not coincidental; they stem from inadequate oversight, missing documentation, and a lack of assertive leadership willing to confront corruption directly. The PSC’s depiction of incomplete Board records, tenders unawarded for over 400 days, and the neglect of accountability is a serious criticism of the agency’s management.

Nonetheless, the EFF must clearly express that Minister Solly Malatsi has not fulfilled his responsibility to reform SITA. Even though the Minister initiated this investigation, his response has been marked by a troubling agenda aimed at undermining the state rather than remedying its issues. Minister Malatsi has been advocating for regulations that would enable government departments to bypass SITA and acquire IT services independently, a reckless initiative that the EFF has condemned for prioritizing private interests over the state’s essential digital infrastructure. His inaction amid blatant evidence of fraud suggests complicity in the corruption plaguing this agency. Rather than stabilizing SITA, the Minister appears intent on dismantling it to facilitate contracts for businesses linked to his political allies.

Moreover, the Minister cannot claim to be unaware or innocent given that his own portfolio, NEMISA, has also faced corruption allegations. These accusations contribute to a larger pattern of decay and theft within the entities under his supervision, indicating a systematic failure of political oversight. Minister Malatsi needs to step up and take decisive action against corruption across all organizations in his portfolio. The EFF insists that the Minister cease politicizing state resources and act immediately and decisively to eliminate corruption at both SITA and NEMISA. The practice of appointing compromised boards and ignoring the plundering of state finances must end.

The EFF praises the PSC for its diligent effort in preparing this report, which offers a solid, evidence driven framework for reform. However, this report must not be forgotten. We urge the swift implementation of its recommendations, including the prosecution of all individuals involved in irregular spending and procurement fraud. Additionally, to effectively combat corruption within the public service, the EFF calls for a substantial increase in the budget and capabilities of the Public Service Commission. It is essential that the PSC is equipped with the resources necessary to investigate these matters promptly and hold the corrupt accountable.

The EFF reiterates its demand that the government halt the covert privatisation of SITA and focus on revitalizing it. We require strong leadership that will fill existing gaps, reform the procurement system, and ensure that this agency serves the public, rather than those with political connections.

The EFF has organized marches against gender-based violence and femicide.

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