The Public Servants Association (PSA) on Thursday urged Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to fast-track the forensic investigation into the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) to restore stability and confidence.
Last week, Godongwana placed GPAA CEO Kedibone Madiehe on precautionary suspension with full pay, effective immediately, following allegations of serious misconduct concerning high-value procurement transactions.
He appointed National Treasury deputy director-general for corporate services Job Stadi Mngomezulu as acting CEO, effective from Monday, for operation continuity.
The PSA said that while it respected process and the presumption of innocence, the investigation must be prompt and thorough, with actions of accountability for guilty parties.
The PSA, which represents the majority of employees at the GPAA, also pointed out that several GPAA executives and senior managers, including officials in critical roles such as the Chief Financial Officer and Director of Security and Facilities, were directly involved in the gross irregularities that led to the CEO’s suspension.
The organisation highlights that transparency throughout this process is vital to rebuild trust in the GPAA and to protect the interests of public servants and pensioners who depend on the GPAA’s integrity.
Earlier this week, Godongwana assured that there would be minimal disruption to GPAA's critical operations and that the highest standards of governance would be maintained.
He said to achieve this, National Treasury, through the Office of the Accountant General (OAG) unit, has commenced a detailed forensic investigation into all allegations against implicated individuals, as well as contracts that have been awarded.
He explained that the preliminary focus of the investigation would focus on the GPAA head office lease; African mobility bus lease; Jicho consulting contracts, as well as the LCS biometric system lease.
Godongwana expressed confidence that the investigation and related disciplinary measures could be completed within 60 days.
The PSA urged Mngomezulu to act decisively against all implicated executives and senior managers, and also called for a review of cases of employees who were unfairly suspended or victimised for raising legitimate concerns regarding these transactions.
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