UPDATE: Pikitup boss reinstated
JOBURG – Member of Joburg Mayoral Committee for Environment and Infrastructure Services, Matshidiso Mfikoe voiced her satisfaction with the investigation which cleared suspended Pikitup managing director Amanda Nair of any misconduct.
UPDATE: 13:50pm – This followed allegations of impropriety in connection with the award of a tender for the provision of waste management services by Pikitup, which prompted the National Treasury to recommend an inquiry into the tender process in December 2013.
However, according to Mfikoe, the bidding process for this tender was initiated prior to Nair’s appointment to her position, and was processed following normal supply chain management procedures.
“The then-board of Pikitup, in consultation with the City of Joburg municipality, took a view that it would best serve the interests of all stakeholders to allow an independent process to determine whether Nair had in any way contravened the Municipal Financial Management Act and Municipal Supply Chain Management Regulations. The board agreed that it would abide by the outcome of this process,” Mfikoe said.
Nair was suspended as provided for in the Pikitup’s policy framework for the duration of the inquiry. The inquiry was presided over by an advocate who had been appointed from a panel selected by the board, and a lengthy enquiry ensued in which evidence was presented before Mfikoe announced that Nair was cleared of all charges.
Mfikoe added that Nair will resume her duties on Thursday this week.
Asked whether she was happy with the findings, Mfikoe said, “It’s a process that was recommended and it took the whole year and I am happy that we are closing the chapter, it was not easy for the City and it was emotional for the family of Nair. I am really happy we have come to the end of this.”
She added that it was also recommended that the city tighten the control systems of Supply Chain Management Regulations and procurement procedures. Mfikoe also revealed that she will be meeting with the new board to find ways of rebuilding the strained relationship between Nair and some staff members, as some had testified against her during the inquiry.
Initial report: 11:53am – Nair was suspended for alleged irregularities in awarding a R263 million tender and her conduct was under investigation.
The outcome was found by the new Pikitup board and was announced at a press briefing on 10 February.
This finding comes after the old board contested the reinstatement.
Also read:
No details on charges against Pikitup boss
