The provincial fleet management debacle is now a cataclysmic disaster. Fleet Africa, who were to be replaced by Phakisa Fleet Solutions, have been reinstated as the preferred supplier to the province after Phakisa’s bid was cancelled due to them not obtaining finance.
The reinstatement of Fleet Africa, as reported in the media, without going through a fresh tendering process, shows concern about the ability of the Transport MEC and officials in dealing with the matter.
Yet again, because of no tendering process, the province could open itself up for litigation –more waste of tax payer’s money.
In response to a question by the DA in the Legislature yesterday, the Premier stated that due to negative publicity Phakisa did not get financing.
There is more to this mess than meets the eye and the DA challenges the MEC for Transport and the Premier to come clean with the public on this matter.
Why has Fleet Africa been re-appointed if they were not the original favoured supplier?
Why did the Premier and her cabinet not do their homework thoroughly before entering into negotiations with Phakisa?
It is common practice with any contract that financial guarantees be put in place before committing to a plan.
It would appear that the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) have been violated in this matter.
In view of the DA’s agenda for accountability, I will be seeking legal opinion as to whether charges may be brought against those officials and politicians for their shoddy and high handed manner in dealing with this transport contract.
This mess yet again retards service delivery to the people.
For further information, please contact Dacre Haddon, MPL on 079 694 3788
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