Public protector’s office says Thuli was warned about BMW
Former public protector Thuli Madonsela allegedly continued to use her state-provided BMW after her term finished without the permission of the office of the public protector.
Spokesperson Oupa Segalwe told Saturday Citizen that the office’s former CEO, Louisa Zondo, who resigned shortly after Madonsela left, warned Madonsela in writing that there would be a cost in the event that the car was not returned. She further allegedly asked her to return it as her term in office had expired.
Segalwe claimed Madonsela was not given permission to use the car, despite Madonsela arguing a completely different view – saying the use of the vehicle was arranged through the SA Police Service’s VIP protection service.
“We are not aware of any such permission or from whom it would have come,” said Segalwe.
“Regarding whether she was made aware of the possible liabilities, Zondo did write to the former public protector, asking that the car be returned and clearly stating that there would be costs in the event the car was not returned.”
However, Madonsela protested this on Thursday, after new Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane held a press conference that mentioned an amount of about R470 000, related to past damages to the BMW and the alleged unauthorised use of the vehicle.
Madonsela told Saturday Citizen the decision to dock the amount from her gratuity was unilateral because she was allegedly not given a chance to air her side of the story.
Madonsela said: “Do ask Mkhwebane which VIP was ever protected with their own car. Is it not government practice to extend a state car with VIP protection?
“The action to deduct [R470 000] was unilateral. On the car being used after [my time in] office, I was given a letter from VIP protection at Saps to do so and advised by the head at a meeting on 14 October. She [Mkhwebane] never objected to me, asked for the car or indicated I would be charged [an amount of money].
“The first I heard of it was when I received a report on my gratuity and what the office intended to deduct. I objected in writing, fruitlessly.”
Madonsela admitted that she felt as though she was being targeted as payback for her investigations and reports on President Jacob Zuma. She also took issue with Mkhwebane alleging she had worked together with Madonsela on any reports.
Madonsela accused Mkhwebane of being dismissive in e-mails.
Segalwe denied claims from Madonsela that Mkhwebane had refused to go to a handover meeting with her predecessor.