EFF statement on Khusela Diko’s leave of absence amidst Covid-19 corruption allegations

28 July 2020

The Economic Freedom Fighters notes the leave of absence taken by the Spokesperson of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Gauteng PEC member, Khusela Diko from all of her responsibilities in government. This comes after damning allegations of COVID-19 tender corruption, which involve her husband Madzikane Thandisizwe Diko and his company Royal Bhaca Projects.

Reports have revealed that the Gauteng Health Department awarded Personal Protective Equipment's (PPE'S) contracts that amount to R125 million to Diko to combat the spread of COVID-19 in March 2020. The contracts, which amounted to R47 million and R78 million respectively were given to Diko to provide biohazard health care waste, biohazard health disposable bags, surgical masks and sanitisers.

The conflict of interest, which arises as a result of Khusela Diko being a member of the Gauteng PEC and occupying an influential position in the governance of the country undoubtedly, impacted the awarding of the tender to her husband.

Diko's company is further said to have inflated the cost of the PPE's it was providing to the Department, to amounts that were significantly above the regulated prices for PPE's. This reveals that this is a parasitic family that has the capacity to manipulate government departments for personal benefit.

Khusela Diko's leave of absence is a last-ditch attempt at saving her integrity and the integrity of a Presidency that is known to cover up corruption when it involves those it regards as part of their faction. Diko is a spokesperson who learnt how to manipulate her way to accessing money through her government and political party position, from the very President she speaks for.

A leave of absence is not enough, Khusela Diko must resign as the Spokesperson in the Presidency of South Africa. It is the only way that the nation can be reassured that Ramaphosa's regime is one that is not committed to corruption and the integrity of the office she currently represents can be protected.

Issued by Vuyani Pambo, National Spokesperson, EFF, 28 July 2020