Thembisa Shologu
MEC for Health, Dr Bandile Masuku has formally requested a forensic audit into the COVID-19 procurement following allegation of his involvement in the procurement processes of the department.
Dr Masuku declared the allegations as false and without foundation since it was his wish that there be an audit which Premier David Makhura subsequently requested the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) to undertake this investigation.
"I value my reputation, that of the Department and the Gauteng Provincial Government and as such, I am obliged to set the record straight.
"As a Member of the Executive Council, I am not involved in, nor do I influence the Department's procurement processes. The processes of awarding contracts within the department rests entirely with the Supply Chain Management function in Finance.
"Following the emergency procurement processes undertaken since the declaration of the National State of Disaster by the President in mid-March 2020, I requested that the administration of the Department must observe good governance principles in the procurement process," said MEC Masuku.
Masuku said if there was any evidence of corruption found in the Department of Health, action would be taken, and offenders prosecuted.
"Those found guilty of fraud and/or the misappropriation of funds at the Department, will face the full might of the law.
"I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone found to be stealing money meant for COVID-19 relief; are identified and brought to book.
MEC Masuku said he remained committed in ensuring that Gauteng's comprehensive health response was focused on saving lives.
"Throughout my career, I have always acted with utmost integrity and conviction. I strongly refute any suggestion that COVID-19 procurement is being used as a means to raise funds ahead of ANC conferences," said the MEC.