South Africa’s freight industry is processing Saturday’s announcement by Transnet that its head of the country’s ports has decided to vacate his position while a cloud of corruption hangs over his head.
It said that Pepi Selinga, chief executive of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), “has offered to take a leave of absence to allow the investigation to proceed without the perception of interference and to ensure that the integrity of the process is not compromised.”
The logistics utility, which is still recovering after years of malfeasance under Jacob Zuma’s state capture corruption, said it had accepted the offer made by Selinga.
The latest scandal to rock Transnet followed after the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) called for his immediate suspension on Wednesday on suspicion of the wrongful awarding of a R300 million tender to a former employee.
In response to Satawu's claims, Transnet Acting CEO Michelle Phillips said the matter had been referred to the relevant legal representatives.
She stressed Satawu had failed to provide evidence to substantiate its claims against Selinga.
Phillips added although it’s a very serious matter, it should be dealt with by following proper procedure.
On Saturday, the state-owned company said: “Transnet has initiated an investigation into all allegations and has briefed an independent law firm to investigate, peruse all relevant documentation, interview individuals relevant to the investigation and provide Transnet with a report on its findings and recommendations.
“These investigations are at an early stage.
“Advocate Phyllis Difeto will be assuming the role of acting chief executive of TNPA with immediate effect. The matter is being treated with urgency and, more importantly, within the ambit of the law. “Any further updates will be provided upon conclusion of the investigations.”
