Cope hits out at justice minister

The Congress of the People (Cope) has questioned when Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola will blacklist controversial company Bosasa and terminate its existing contracts.

In a statement yesterday, Cope spokesperson Dennis Bloem asked if Lamola was waiting for the US to teach him a lesson.

Bloem was referring to the recent US sanctions against the controversial Gupta brothers and Salim Essa, who will no longer be able do business there or with companies based there.

“Cope is very disappointed that the minister has failed to get educated from the recent embarrassing action by the Americans against the Guptas,” Bloem said.

“It remains crystal clear, and no more a secret, that an unhealthy relationship existed between Luthuli House, the headquarters of the ruling party, some government ministers and Bosasa.”

Bosasa is now called African Global Operations (AGO).

Bloem mentioned testimony by former Bosasa chief operating officer Angelo Agrizzi, who appeared before the judicial Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, chaired by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, and made numerous allegations of corruption.

He claimed politicians and government officials were allegedly on the company’s payroll in exchange for lucrative contracts.

“[Cope] wants Minister Lamola to tell the country if this controversial company Bosasa/AGO continues to enjoy lucrative tenders in the South African government, despite Agrizzi’s explosive testimony against it before the Zondo commission.

“It is well known that Agrizzi told the commission that these individuals have bribed their way to get these contracts.

“We are saying Minister Lamola must know that the whole world is keeping a close watch on how the South African government is dealing with this rampant corruption.” – News24 Wire

[Does Bosasa still] enjoy lucrative tenders in the SA government?

Dennis Bloem Cope spokesperson