Ex-Minister Patricia de Lille Calls for Fair Evaluation Amidst DPWI Cyber Crime Allegations

In a recent development addressing concerns over cyber crime allegations within the Department of Public Works & Infrastructure (DPWI), former Minister Patricia de Lille has publicly responded to her successor's remarks. The allegations span a 10-year period, during which de Lille served as Minister for nearly four years, before taking up her current role as the Minister of Tourism.

De Lille's statement comes after the current DPWI Minister, Dean Macpherson, addressed the media concerning alleged cyber crimes within the department. As part of her proactive approach, de Lille has confirmed a forthcoming meeting with Minister Macpherson to acquire the detailed report that pertains to her term.

Her tenure, she contends, was marked by significant strides in combating governmental over-expenditure, citing the recovery of R 253 million that had been inappropriately charged in leases. This achievement underscores a firm stance against financial irregularities and embodies the responsibility held by public officials in safeguarding the state's resources.

In a bid to ensure thorough investigation of all alleged misconduct and corruption during her term in office, de Lille entered into an agreement with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). This partnership involved the SIU seconding two officials to the DPWI to enhance investigative efficacy. This level of cooperation between government entities reinforces de Lille's message of transparency and accountability.

The former Minister's proactive response to the allegations, before acquiring a full examination of the concerned report, exemplifies her commitment to rectitude. She indicates that any detected irregularities during her term were promptly reported both to the Auditor General and the SIU, emphasizing a no-tolerance policy for corruption and malpractice.

As de Lille awaits the detailed report from Minister Macpherson that correlates with her term at the DPWI, her response signifies not just the importance of accountability amongst public officials, but also the vital need for accurate assessments of tenure performances.

Notably, she also prioritizes setting the record straight on actions and counter-actions taken during her time in office—actions that were aimed at maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the DPWI. The outcomes of the upcoming meeting with Minister Macpherson and subsequent actions are awaited with high anticipation for further clarity on these consequential allegations.