Dear Editor
The DA is demanding answers after it emerged that PRASA has blown billions refurbishing old trains that aren’t even being used.
The first R2.5 billion went into restoring trains now collecting dust in depots, and PRASA is planning to pour another R5 billion into more of the same.
We will write to the National Treasury to flag the project as vanity project.
According to reports, kickbacks were allegedly paid during the project and the forensic report makes it clear the refurbishments weren’t even necessary.
Even PRASA’s acting CFO raised concerns and said the money could be better spent elsewhere. But the project went ahead anyway.
Minister Creecy must release this forensic report so the public can see the full picture. Parliament cannot sit back while billions are wasted and PRASA continues to ignore key recommendations, including those made five years ago by the Public Protector. The DA will submit a PAIA request to the Department to request access to this report, in the public interest.
This is about more than just mismanagement. It’s about making sure public money is used to improve services for the people who rely on them.
While millions of South Africans are struggling, this kind of reckless spending is unacceptable. The DA will keep fighting to hold those responsible to account.
Regards
Thamsanqa Mabhena MP
DA Deputy Spokesperson on Transport