The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has announced it plans to conclude its investigation into alleged irregularities in the upgrades of Parliamentary offices and accommodation by March next year. The probe centers on issues such as irregular contract awards, budget overruns, and poor workmanship in projects exceeding R1 billion.
During a briefing to Parliament’s Public Works Committee on Friday, the SIU provided an update on its inquiry into the Department of Public Works’ “prestige” portfolio. This portfolio includes projects that began prior to the devastating fire that destroyed the National Assembly Chamber and adjacent offices.
As part of the upgrades, Parliament undertook renovations to various buildings on the precinct and MPs’ residential accommodations. One such project, costing R25 million, involved the creation of dozens of new offices and meeting rooms for political parties in a building called 90 Plein. However, the project is now under scrutiny for alleged procurement irregularities.
Preliminary findings from the SIU reveal potential irregular approvals of additional funding for at least five contracts related to the R519 million office refurbishments. Similar concerns have emerged regarding R506 million allocated for upgrades to residential facilities at Parliamentary villages.
SIU Chief Operating Officer Leonard Lekgetho highlighted several challenges that have delayed the investigations. These include a lack of cooperation from the department, particularly from its former director general, and difficulties in obtaining necessary documents.
“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.
He also noted that the constant rotation of managers overseeing the prestige contracts further stalled the investigative process. Despite these obstacles, the SIU remains committed to completing its work within the projected timeline.
#SIU #Aims #Finalize #Parliament #Upgrade #Probe #March #Irregularities
