The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is expected to complete its investigation into the irregularities surrounding Parliament’s upgrades by March next year. The probe, which began in 2022, has been examining the irregular awarding of contracts, budget overruns, and poor workmanship on contracts worth over R1 billion.
The SIU has been investigating at least five contracts for renovation work at Parliament, including the R519 million office refurbishments and R506 million spent on residential upgrades at Parliamentary villages. Preliminary findings suggest that there may have been irregular approvals for additional funds for these projects.
According to SIU Chief Operating Officer Leonard Lekgetho, the investigation has faced challenges due to a lack of cooperation from the former director general of the department. Additionally, the constant rotation of managers handling the contracts has stalled the investigation.
“The challenges that we have faced relating to these matters, is that the delay occurred during the start phase of the project due to lack of cooperation by the former director general of the department and there was lack of cooperation by the department in the request of the upliftment of documents,” Lekgetho explained.
The SIU’s investigation is a critical step towards ensuring accountability and transparency in government. By examining the irregularities surrounding Parliament’s upgrades, the SIU aims to uncover the truth and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
As the investigation nears its completion, South Africans can expect a comprehensive report outlining the findings and recommendations. The SIU’s commitment to accountability and transparency is a vital component of a healthy democracy, and their work is essential to ensuring that those in power are held accountable for their actions.
