SIU Targets Corruption: Probes Launched in SITA and Bushbuckridge Municipality

In a significant move to clamp down on corruption within public sectors, President Cyril Ramaphosa has endorsed two critical proclamations—Proclamations 258 and 259 of 2025—empowering the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to launch comprehensive investigations into the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) and Bushbuckridge Local Municipality in Mpumalanga.

Proclamation 258 directs the SIU to delve into alleged maladministration and corruption at SITA concerning the procurement of a Turnkey Software Asset Management Solution and Integrated Logistics Support Services. The focus extends to assessing adherence to National Treasury guidelines, transparency, and potential wasteful expenditure, covering activities from 13 July 2017 to 16 May 2025. This probe into SITA aims to unveil any illicit or inappropriate activities involving employees, suppliers, or related entities.

Switching focus to local governance, Proclamation 259 allows the SIU to investigate irregularities within the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, spotlighting the procurement process for the Lillydale Phase 1 project. This inquiry centers on the procurement and contracting dynamics of paving internal streets, scrutinizing the adherence to legislative and policy frameworks from 1 January 2018 to 16 May 2025. The investigation will also probe the conduct of municipal officials, suppliers, and service providers to determine if their actions led to financial detriments to the municipality or state.

Both investigations are grounded in the guidelines set by the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), which mandates the SIU to forward any evidence of criminal activity to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for prosecution and enables the SIU to initiate civil actions against entities involved in corruption, fraud, or maladministration.

This proactive approach by President Ramaphosa not only aims to tackle corruption head-on but also seeks to restore integrity and confidence in public institutions. The outcomes of these investigations are anticipated to have significant implications on improving governance and enhancing accountability within South Africa's public sector.