Mbalula’s failed irregular attempt to remove SCM Director exposed

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – Fresh details have emerged regarding an attempt by Free State MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport, Jabu Mbalula, to transfer the department’s Supply Chain Management (SCM) Director, raising further questions about political interference within the department.

While Mbalula has not responded to questions sent to him on that he influenced the procurement process relating to a R372 million tender awarded to Tau Pele Construction, the department has also not confirmed or denied the claims despite being afforded an opportunity to do so.

“We are not in a position to confirm or deny specific allegations” – Community Safety, Roads and Transport on R372 million tender controversy

STEPUPSANEWS can confirm that Mbalula signed a letter dated 29 May informing SCM Director Molisane that “your transfer has been approved.”

However, the letter does not indicate who approved the transfer or who initiated the request, leaving critical questions unanswered.

Documents seen by this publication further indicate that the second page of the transfer letter, which required Molisane’s written consent, was not signed in agreement, suggesting that he did not consent to the proposed transfer.

During a subsequent meeting with departmental staff, Mbalula announced the proposed changes and remarked that if Molisane was unhappy with the decision, “he knows what to do”, a statement some officials interpreted as pressure to resign.

The developments have renewed concerns about governance and political interference within the department, with critics arguing that public administration should be guided by due process, transparency and the rule of law rather than political influence.

The allegations come as scrutiny over decision-making within the department continues to intensify, with calls for greater accountability from those entrusted with public office.

Karma knows the address.

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