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Eastern Cape Health MEC Sindiswa Gomba
Eastern Cape Health MEC Sindiswa Gomba is expected to appear in Special Court, following allegations of financial irregularities, involving his department, in a controversial R10 million scooter project.
Court spokesman Selby Makgotho confirmed this to News24 on Thursday morning.
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Makgotho said Gomba, Departmental General Superintendent Dr. Thobile Mbengashe, CFO M Daca and Fabkomp (Pty) Ltd would appear in court on Friday.
“It is alleged that the department allegedly accelerated the contract for the acquisition of 100 mobile clinic scooters from Fabkomp (Pty) Ltd in light of the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. The Special Investigation Unit, which submitted the request to the Special Court , maintains that the award of the R10 million contract was made in contravention of the provisions of Article 217 of the Constitution, [the] Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and Treasury regulations, “said Makgotho.
“Furthermore, it is alleged that the contract was marred by irregularities and irrationality and that it was awarded with unusual and inexplicable haste.” It is further alleged that the Department, upon learning of the SIU’s investigations, resolved to modify the scooter and continue the tender with Fabkomp (Pty) Ltd as a service provider and that such modification constitutes a new contract. SIU alleges that the modifications show that the contract award was not intended to meet the specific needs of the Department. “
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On June 12, Health Minister Dr. Zweli Mkhize and Gomba presented six scooters equipped on the side with a first aid kit and oxygen on board.
However, the scooter initiative sparked outrage across the country, with some accusing the department of corruption that News24 previously reported.
And now, the tender that was awarded to a King William’s Town-based company is under investigation.
The department previously confirmed that the Bid Award Committee was reviewing the processes followed in awarding the agreement.
The department also said the committee was acting out of “public unrest” over the deal.
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