‘Secret’ plan to buy billion-rand jet for Zuma – report
A plan to purchase a jet for Zuma was abandoned last year after tender requirements were not met.
President Jacob Zuma. Picture: Michel Bega
Sunday Times reports that President Jacob Zuma is set to get a new jet, with discussions having reached a high level.
South African Air Force Brigadier-General Mzayifani Buthelezi, a director of air transport, reportedly me with air force chief and military commander Lieutenant-General Fabian Msimang to discuss the purchase of the luxury jet. which will have 18 seats, an executive lounge, entertainment capabilities and storage for foreign currency.
A 19-page document seen by Sunday Times shows how the jet will be used for shorter trips around the country while the main jet, Inkwazi, will be used for long-distance trips. The weekly further reports that a bid to purchase aircraft for Zuma would be estimated to cost in the region of R4 billion.
“This deal has been the subject of confidential discussions by top air force chiefs since the beginning of the year and, from what I can gather, it won’t even go out for open tender because of the veil of secrecy surrounding it,” a source said.
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