Transnet CEO announcements ‘imminent’

With the summary dismissal of Transnet Freight Rail CEO Siyabonga Gama – after a disciplinary process had found him guilty of a number of mismanagement charges – the host of currently “acting” chief executives in the parastatal transport group may now be confirmed. That is with the present list of Transnet senior executives being: Tau Morwe, acting CE of TFR; Karl Socikwa, acting CE of Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) and even Chris Wells acting group CE of Transnet. The only confirmed post is KC Phihlela, CE of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). Although Gama is still making loud noises about the unfairness of his dismissal, Transnet has happily declared the matter signed, sealed and delivered. “Now that the disciplinary process against Gama – which necessitated these acting arrangements – is behind us, Transnet will begin a process of making permanent appointments at TFR and TPT,” John Dludlu, spokesman for Transnet, told FTW. As for the post of group CE, he added, “this is the province of our shareholder – the Minister of Public Enterprises.” Ayanda Shezi, spokeswoman for Department of Public Enterprises told FTW: “We are looking to appoint the chairperson at the forthcoming Transnet AGM on July 23. “This would then be followed by the appointment of a group CE.” To check up just how far the confirmation procedure had advanced, FTW talked to Karl Socikwa, that very pleasant and communicative, but still “acting” TPT CEO. “Yes,” he said, he had heard the news, but: “No,” he had not yet been contacted directly. But the hint from Transnet is that these confirmations are just weeks off, not months off as before.