DA calls for probe into companies linked to Deputy President sons

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is demanding an investigation into two companies reportedly connected to Deputy President Paul Mashatile sons, paid a whopping R36.4 million for fire suppression and detection systems.

Shockingly, these systems failed to prevent the recent fire at Tembisa Hospital.

Reports reveal that Ngwato and Manzi Group (NMG) and Modipadi Nokaneng are linked to Thabiso Mashatile and Tinyiko Mvelase.

These companies were originally awarded a hefty R49 million contract in 2022 to service fire alarms and sprinkler systems at Gauteng public hospitals.

DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health, Dr. Jack Bloom MPL, raised concerns over the suspicious nature of these companies allegedly sharing staff, resources, and office space despite being distinct entities.

Dr. Bloom demanded answers regarding the R36.4 million payment these companies received and the outstanding R12.6 million for additional work.

Furthermore, it was revealed that these companies also failed to settle a R219,000 agreement with retrenched workers.

Dr. Bloom emphasised the need for transparency and accountability, especially in critical areas like fire safety.

“I am awaiting answers to official questions to the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development about the payments to these companies. We need to know why a large amount of money has been paid to companies for fire prevention, but most hospitals are still not compliant with fire safety standards, and the Tembisa Hospital suffered two fires this year,” said Dr Bloom.

The DA vows to ensure that contracts are awarded fairly to companies that deliver on their promises, especially in matters concerning public safety where lives are at stake.