I reject the bizarre accusation by Abalozi Security Risk Advisory Services spokesman Jeff Mahlangu that there is a political conspiracy between the ANC and the DA against this company because of its ties with Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda (see Sunday Independent report).

Mahlangu reportedly made this accusation in the Sunday Independent yesterday following the cancellation of Abalozi's contract with the Gauteng Roads and Transport Department. This is after R71 million had been paid to Abalosi, which was formerly known as General Nyanda Security (GNS).

I also don't know how he can claim that the Public Protector has cleared Nyanda of wrongdoing in this matter as this report, initiated on my complaint, has not yet been made public. I am disturbed that the report may have been leaked to Abalozi, and will be inquiring with the Public Protector in this regard.

I commend the department for cancelling this contract as it was awarded without going out to tender and it was found that other companies could do the job at a much lower cost.

Questions remain about possible improper influence in the award of this contract. I am disappointed that the department is not taking any disciplinary action even though it has found that proper procedures were not followed.

Gauteng Transport MEC Nkosi should take legal steps to recover the wasted money from the former head of this department Mr Sibusiso Buthelezi, who was the Accounting Officer who should have prevented this from happening.

Nkosi should follow the good example of the SAA Board in this regard, which is taking action against its former CEO Khaya Ngqula.

Otherwise there is no penalty, and abuses will recur.

Statement issued by Jack Bloom, MPL, Democratic Alliance Gauteng Health Spokesman, August 9 2010

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