Transnet National Ports Authority Chief Executive, Pepi Silinga, has parted ways with the ports company it announced on Tuesday.
This comes after TNPA placed Silinga, who still had two years left on his contract, on ‘precautionary suspension’ in February 2024 after allegations of the wrongful awarding of a R300m tender arose and the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) called for his immediate suspension.
In response to Satawu's claims, Transnet CEO, Michelle Phillips, said at the time that the matter had been referred to relevant legal representatives. She stressed that Satawu had failed to provide evidence to substantiate its claims against Silinga.
He took voluntary leave of absence in January 2024, saying he had taken this decision to allow the company’s internal investigation into the matter to proceed without any perception of interference.
Transnet said on Tuesday that his employment with the company was terminated “by mutual agreement” with effect from July 16, 2025.
“Advocate Phyllis Difeto will continue to act in the role until a permanent head is found. Transnet will soon begin the search for a successor to ensure a seamless transition and consistent implementation of TNPA’s strategic projects,” the company said.
Silinga was appointed chief executive of TNPA in 2023.
The Herald reported on Wednesday that, after it contacted Silinga for comment, a statement was issued saying both parties had agreed to resolve the dispute.
“This followed a settlement in the private arbitration proceedings between themselves in respect of allegations of misconduct against Silinga and a protected disclosure dispute which was instituted by Silinga against Transnet. Both parties decided to settle the disputes between them without either party admitting any liability or wrongdoing,” the statement said.
“The disciplinary charges against Silinga did not involve fraud, corruption or dishonesty,” it said.
Silinga was previously chief executive of the Coega Development Corporation where he worked for 22 years.
