What’s Happening at the National Treasury?
The National Treasury has started an investigation after a former worker was linked to suspicious activity during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. The focus is on how certain government contracts—called transversal contracts—were awarded.
Who Is Molefe Fani?
Molefe Fani used to work at the National Treasury for four years. While there, he handled transversal contracts and later became the acting chief procurement officer. In 2022 he moved to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and took over as head of procurement.
Why Is He in the Spotlight?
During the Madlanga Commission hearings, evidence showed that Fani may have improperly influenced the awarding of several contracts. One example involves a tender for medical supplies (Medicare24 Tshwane) that went to a businessman accused of attempted murder, Vusi “Cat” Matlala.
What Are Transversal Contracts?
Transversal contracts are deals set up by the National Treasury so that many government departments can buy the same goods or services without each having to run its own tender process. The Office of the Chief Procurement Officer (OCPO) manages these contracts, handling everything from planning the bid to awarding the deal.
The Investigation Steps
External Forensic Team
Because the allegations are serious, the National Treasury hired outside forensic experts to look into the awarding of the contracts and any possible misconduct by the former employee.
Goals of the Probe
- Check whether the claims made at the commission are true.
- Identify any weaknesses in the current procurement system.
- Recommend changes to make the process more transparent and fair.
What Will Happen Next?
The Treasury says it will release the findings once the investigation is finished, to keep the public informed and maintain trust. While the probe is underway, officials will not give media interviews so they don’t jeopardize the integrity of the work.
Related Cases That Keep Coming Up
SAPS Tender for Motor Spares
Earlier this week, testimony revealed that a suspended deputy head of Crime Intelligence, Feroz Khan, helped a businessman named Ismail Vally win an SAPS tender for motor spares. The tender was advertised through the National Treasury in 2021.
What Did Khan Receive?
According to WhatsApp messages shown at the commission, Khan got R150,000 in cash, a luxury watch, and a V8 car from Vally. He also communicated with Fani during the tender’s adjudication, getting inside information before the contract was awarded.
Reactions from Oversight Bodies
Police Portfolio Committee’s View
Committee Chairperson Ian Cameron said the evidence strengthens the case for a criminal investigation into Fani’s conduct. He pointed out that irregular spending in SAPS has jumped 140% year‑on‑year, reaching R640 million, and that Fani’s move from Treasury to SAPS looks suspicious.
Calls for Action
Cameron has urged authorities to consider arresting Fani, arguing that the situation is more than an internal matter and could involve a criminal network manipulating procurement for personal gain.
Conclusion
The National Treasury’s investigation aims to uncover whether former employees abused their influence to steer lucrative contracts toward friends or business partners. By bringing in external experts and promising to share the results, the department hopes to restore confidence in its efforts will lead to stronger rules, better oversight, and a fairer procurement system for all South Africans.
