South Africa: DA Welcomes Minister Macpherson's Appointment of Forensic Investigator Into Idt Tender

22 January 2025
Democratic Alliance (Cape Town)
press release By Edwin Bath MP - DA Deputy Spokesperson On Public Works & Infrastructure

The Democratic Alliance (DA) strongly supports Minister Dean Macpherson's decisive actions to uncover and address alleged corruption within the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

The ongoing investigations into the R800-million oxygen plant tender, riddled with irregularities such as unqualified bidders and fraudulent documentation, underscore the Minister's commitment to transparency and accountability. The Department's appointment of PwC to conduct an independent forensic investigation is a critical step in ensuring good, transparent governance and the protection of our public funds.

It is deeply concerning that certain political parties in Parliament, as well as some members of business sectors and the media, have sought to shield corrupt practices by levelling baseless accusations against the Minister. These claims are not only misleading but also indicative of a broader effort to derail the fight against corruption. It is not dissimilar to what we saw under State Capture.

An ethical Portfolio Committee should be united in supporting any efforts by the Minister and his department to identify and root out corruption, even if merely alleged, within the department and its entities. This is not a political issue; it is a moral and ethical obligation to ensure that public resources are managed responsibly and for the benefit of all South Africans.

Minister Macpherson's actions reflect what should be the standard for all government leaders: a relentless commitment to exposing and eradicating corruption. The DA remains steadfast in supporting these efforts, regardless of threats or smear campaigns aimed at undermining this critical work.

The fight against corruption is vital to rebuilding trust in government and ensuring a brighter future for South Africa.

The DA calls on the Portfolio Committee of Public Works and Infrastructure to unite behind Minister Macpherson's actions and be as animated and vigorous as he is in interrogating corruption and holding officials accountable for doing their jobs ethically and in the interest of serving the public.

Read the original article on DA.

Tagged:
Copyright © 2025 Democratic Alliance. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 110 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.