Arrest of agriculture HOD is the ‘tip of the iceberg’

LAST WORDS arrest of former HOD of the KZN Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs and an acting High Court judge by the Hawks is just the start.

This is according to the IFP in the KZN Legislature, who believe there is more to the suspected corruption and embezzlement of department funds.

The former HOD, Dr Siphiwe Mkhize and the judge, who was the department’s service provider, were arrested for their involvement in a R1-million vehicle deal.

IFP KZN spokesperson for Agriculture and Land Affairs, Nhlanhla Msimango, said while the official opposition party in the legislature is applauding the news of these arrests, they are convinced more heads should roll.

“We believe that numerous department officials have been embroiled in corruption involving millions of rands since 2016 during his tenure in office.

“We believe that if the forensic investigation probing the drought relief fund launched in 2012 by former MEC Meshack Radebe is released, it will open a can of worms,” said Msimango.

He said almost R60-million in taxpayers' money, meant to assist emerging farmers in rural areas in KZN, went missing.

“It is unacceptable and raises questions that, despite this department changing hands from Radebe to Themba Mthembu to Bongi Sithole-Moloi, none have had the courage to release the forensic report.”

Msimango stated that while much needs to be done, his party commends the NPA for bringing to book criminals masquerading as office-bearers.

“We trust their good work will continue as they root out corruption in the public service,” said Msimango.