DA probes R84m payments to suspended RAF Staff

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) is being criticized by the Democratic Alliance (DA) for its concerning mishandling of finances, as it has come to light that millions of rands have been disbursed to suspended employees who are not actively working.

Over the past 18 months, 32 employees have been placed on suspension, resulting in a total salary payout of around R20 million.

Of even greater concern is a specific group of employees who have been on suspension for more than four years, collectively receiving full pay, which has amounted to an estimated cost of over R50 million.

This worrisome situation has sparked apprehension regarding the fund’s operational effectiveness and financial viability ¹.

DA Spokesperson on Transport, Chris Hunsinger, is resolute in his determination to address this issue with Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy at the upcoming portfolio committee meeting.

“We will be seeking further details regarding the current capacity to process claims, evaluating the impact that these staff suspensions have had on recent operations, and comprehending the immediate measures that will be implemented to conclude these cases and prevent additional costs,” stated Hunsinger.

“The figures are staggering – over R84 million has been paid to suspended staff in the last 18 months. Some employees have been on suspension for over four years, resulting in substantial costs to the fund that could have been utilized to settle additional claims. This is intolerable, particularly in light of the RAF’s history of financial difficulties.”

“The RAF is grappling with significant operational and financial challenges, as cases remain in limbo and there are delays in payments to victims of road accidents and other stakeholders,” remarked Hunsinger.

Hunsinger emphasized that the DA’s immediate intervention is crucial in addressing the RAF’s financial drain, and raised the question of whether Minister Creecy will take decisive action to put an end to this predicament.