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Malahlela burst into tears when her evidence reached the point of reading an email she wrote to Burger complaining about Gupta’s capture, forcing a short break to recover.
When the investigation was resumed, he read the email dated April 20, 2016, which in part reads: “Hi Stephan [Burger]. Having signed the preferred supplier agreement with VR Laser and Denel having been in the media for their strategic alliance with VR Laser.
“After reading various media reports on allegations of state capture by the Gupta family, more concerns arise about the viability of the partnership and the risk Denel will be exposed to if he continues his alliance with VR Laser.
“I am fighting to turn a blind eye to this phenomenon. I would like to reiterate that it is my humble opinion that DLS did not follow due process in designating VR Laser as the preferred supplier for steel fabrications and components. Among other irregularities there was no RFQ [request for quotations] or tender issued for the award of this contract ”, he read.
“I would also like to point out that the current CEO of VR Laser has acknowledged his ties to the Gupta family and the president’s son (through indirect involvement). In light of all these facts, I would like to request that DLS carefully reconsider VR Laser as a preferred / strategic provider.
“Denel is a strategic asset of this country and I am proud to be associated with him. It is a great pleasure for me to wake up every morning to serve this country. We are certainly a great company. However, with the speed at which this controversy unfolds, I’m not sure this company will survive long enough for my kids to see. We should be proud of what we have achieved. Equally, we must do whatever it takes to protect this great legacy. “
Malahlela concluded her testimony on Tuesday afternoon.
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