The ANC in Gauteng appointed two people accused of state capture corruption onto the boards of the province’s state-owned entities, News24 reports.
Tasneem Motara, MEC for Gauteng’s Department of Economic Development, appointed former finance minister Des Van Rooyen to the board of the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP).
The GEP is tasked with providing loans to small, medium and micro enterprises.
Motara also appointed Papa Leshabane, a former Bosasa director, to the board of the Gauteng Tourism Authority.
Evidence from the state capture commission of inquiry revealed that Leshabane was deeply involved in Bosasa’s corruption. He allegedly routinely and regularly bribed several government bureaucrats – and senior officials of the Department of Correctional Services, in particular – in return for Bosasa’s obtaining state contracts.
In his state capture reports, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo said Leshabane, together with other Bosasa directors, ran the Bosasa business operations on the basis of widespread corruption, bribery and fraud. Bosasa bribed politicians, government officials, President Jacob Zuma and others.
In his final report, Zondo found that Van Rooyen ‘must have received the approval of the Guptas to be appointed minister of finance and he came to National Treasury with advisors he did not know’.
Motara defended her decision, saying: ‘Neither of the two board members has a criminal record. We look for academic experience, industry and sector expertise, and a collective skill that will enhance our work. Neither of the two has a criminal record, let alone any charges against them. Should any member of any of our boards be convicted of any criminal activity, that member will immediately be dismissed.’
[Image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/governmentza/52166140552]