DIVINE PROTECTOR
cleared by the SANBS board, despite his attempt to mislead the investigation.
“In this instance, after having applied itself to the report, the board requested Mr Theunissen make a submission to the board, after which it came to the conclusion that Mr Theunissen did not mislead the investigation,” said SANBS marketing manager Silungile Mlambo.
She said Theunissen was able to furnish the board with written evidence which was apparently not “taken into account” in the forensic investigation.
“The [human resources] executive was also able to confirm the steps that Mr Theunissen had taken in collaboration with him at the time of the appointment of the previous CEO to ensure that the remuneration of the incoming CEO corresponded with the board-approved remuneration for that position,” said Simelane.
Louw has been heavily criticised by some workers for buying drones for millions of rands, despite having failed on numerous occasions to get licences for them. The drones would be used to fly blood products to patients in rural areas.
SANBS confirmed yesterday that it had bought two drones from Quantum Systems but declined to disclose costs, saying it had negotiated a special price with the supplier.
“We are proud to be able to inform you that the South African Civil Aviation Authority [CAA] has established a special task team to deal directly with this revolutionary, life-saving technology and it is anticipated that SANBS will be flying blood products to patients before the end of the year,” said the organisation.
The CAA confirmed yesterday that SANBS did not yet have a licence to fly the drones.
Two whistleblowers who advocated the release of the forensic report and claim to have been subjected to continuous victimisation and intimidation by the CEO for raising issues related to maladministration and corruption, have been sued for defamation related to the reputational damage the CEO and board members suffered.
They are currently on suspension, having accused the CEO of victimisation and abuse of power by flouting procurement policies to bleed SANBS coffers.
Hawks spokesperson Captain Ndivhuwo Mulamu confirmed a case of fraud is being investigated.