SIU Temporarily Blocks Pension of Former Water and Sanitation DDG Amid Corruption Probe

In a significant move demonstrating the government's commitment to combatting corruption, the Special Tribunal has authorized the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to halt the pension benefits of Zandile Yvone Mathe, the former Deputy Director-General of the now-renamed Department of Water and Sanitation. This decision, dated January 13, 2025, prevents Mathe from accessing her funds with the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) and the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA).

This order follows Mathe's dismissal due to findings from a disciplinary proceeding initiated by the SIU. She had attempted to claim her pension benefits shortly after her dismissal, prompting the SIU to seek an interdiction from the Special Tribunal. The interdiction is integral to the SIU's broader strategy to enforce accountability and recover financial losses incurred by the state due to corruption, maladministration, or negligence.

The investigations into Mathe began under Proclamation No. R. 54 of 2012, focusing primarily on a contract identified as W0497, intended for the construction of a water pipeline in Vuwani, Limpopo. Allegations of procurement and administrative violations surround this high-stakes project, implicating not just Mathe but also other key departmental officials, including the Chief Financial Officer, Mpho Joseph Mofokeng.

As part of its investigation, the SIU filed a lawsuit in the High Court of South Africa (Gauteng Division, Pretoria) against the contractor, Ascul Construction CC, its director Dan Lucas Sikhosana, Mathe, and Mofokeng. The SIU's legal pursuit revolves around seeking lawful termination of the implicated contracts valued at roughly R170 million, and additional claims for damages amounting to approximately R55.7 million. The accusations leveled against the parties include severe maladministration and non-compliance with the Public Finance Management Act, among other statutory breaches.

Pending the litigation which remains active, the Special Tribunal has mandated that the GEPF and GPAA ascertain the full beneficial value of Mathe's pension within 60 days of the order. This assessment aims to ensure that the funds match or exceed the claims made against her in court.

The SIU, backed by the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act of 1996, continues to wield its power to initiate civil litigation stemming from investigations into corruption, fraud, or maladministration. It also has the authority to refer any evidence of criminal conduct it uncovers during its probes to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

This case highlights the rigorous measures being undertaken to safeguard public assets and hold government officials accountable, ensuring transparency and integrity within South Africa's public sector.