DA meets with Public Protector over PRASA’s R3.5 Billion train refurb 'scandal'

DA MP and the party's deputy spokesperson on transport Thami Mabhena speaks to Mandy Wiener about the DA's meeting with Prasa.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has formally submitted evidence to Public Protector regarding in respect of the R3.5 billion train refurbishment scandal at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

DA representatives met with the Public Protector in Pretoria on Friday to hand over documents they say expose large-scale mismanagement and waste in the state-owned rail agency.

The complaint centres on seven 'Grey and Yellow' or “GO” train refurbishment contracts approved in June 2022.

The party's deputy spokesperson on transport Thami Mabhena says the DA wants to see the Public Protector get to the bottom on the complaint.

"What we've got currently is...Prasa busy fixing trains that they've got no use for."

Despite billions reportedly spent, the party claims that the trains remain idle, standing stationary in depots instead of serving commuters.

"Why spend billions of taxpayers funds refurbishing trains they're not going to use?", says Mabhena.

According to the DA, the trains being refurbished would only be used on two corriders in the Western Cape.

“This is about ensuring South Africans have access to safe, affordable and reliable public transport,” the party said in a statment,

The Public Protector has, according to the DA, committed to initiating a full investigation into the matter.

To listen to the conversation between the DA’s Deputy Spokesperson on Transport Thami Mabhena and Mandy Wiener, click audio below.