Tolashe planning forensic probe into bungle involving DSD DG's work contract

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is planning a forensic investigation into the bungle involving the director-general’s work contract. 

Last week, Tolashe asked Peter Netshipale to provide her with reasons why he should not be charged with gross dishonesty for signing a contract with the wrong duration on it.

While previously telling Parliament’s portfolio committee this was a clerical error, answering questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Tolashe said the director-general could not escape accountability for the mishap.

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Two weeks ago, Minister Tolashe said the mistake in the director-general’s contract occurred in the paperwork between Cabinet, which approved a one-year contract, and the Department of Public Service and Administration, which presented Netshipale with a five-year contract. 

However, on Wednesday, on a question from the MK Party, Tolashe said that taking disciplinary steps against Netshipale was part of strengthening administrative accountability and integrity in the department.

"While in the process of finalising a forensic investigation in order to get to the bottom of this matter, I want to place it on record, this investigation is not a witch-hunt, intended to throw anyone under the bus."

But the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)’s Paulnita Marais was puzzled as to how an alleged administrative glitch had led to gross dishonesty charges against Netshipale.

Tolashe responded that she had an oversight role to play to ensure the director-general was held accountable on all matters.

"He must be able to be taken through a process. If he has the facts, he must rectify and take the minister into confidence."

She added that Netshipale had not been officially charged with an offence, and she was awaiting his response to three charges put to him in a letter last week.