ANC ‘embarrassed’ by allegations of Covid-19 corruption
The African National Congress (ANC) in Parliament says it's deeply embarrassed by the allegations of Covid-19 corruption made against members of the party.
On Monday President Cyril Ramaphosa likened those profiting from the Covid-19 pandemic as a pack of hyenas circling a wounded prey.
Ramaphosa’s remarks came amid a slew of allegations against senior public servants.
The president’s spokesperson Khusela Diko, Gauteng Health MEC Bandile Masuku and his wife Loyiso have been implicated in a multimillion-rand personal protective equipment (PPE) tender.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura has also revealed that more than 100 companies are being probed by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) in connection with Covid-19 business done with the state.
ANC caucus spokesperson Nomfanelo Kota says the allegations are nothing less embarrassing.
"Law enforcement agencies must work around the clock to stem the tide of this criminality.
Corruption is inimical to development. It constrains the ability of the ANC government to fight poverty, especially during a ravaging pandemic such as Covid-19 and negatively affects the economy and citizens.”
She adds that the caucus will also take decisive action against any party member found guilty of corruption.
"As the ANC caucus, we agree that those involved in corruption and looting of public resources must face the full might of the law swiftly, without any fear or favour. We will closely monitor the developments of the cases under investigation and take decisive action against those involved in corruption and unsavoury conduct.”
LISTEN TO KOTA HERE:
President Ramaphosa has directed the SIU to probe all Covid-related corruption and asked the unit to provide him with updated every six weeks.
"We are encouraged by the establishment of these institutions, hoping that those involved in corruption will be dealt with timeously and the funds recovered," says Kota.
The two biggest opposition parties, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have written to National Assembly Speaker Thandi Modise to request that Parliament address coronavirus corruption.
The DA has asked for a debate in the National Assembly, while the EFF wants the establishment of a special committee to probe the allegations of corruption.
ALSO READ
Ramaphosa labels Covid-19 profiteers 'hyenas, scavengers'
Corruption during a national disaster is a particularly heinous type of crime, and perpetrators are going to be dealt with decisively and harshly. It is difficult to understand the utter lack of conscience that leads a businessperson who has heeded the call to provide lifesaving supplies during a devastating pandemic to inflate the price of a surgical mask by as much as 900%.
