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Maile’s chief of staff implicated in corruption scandal

Claims of corruption have rocked  office of Gauteng MEC for Treasury and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, as his Chief of Staff, Collin Pitso, has been implicated in a scandal involving a sum of R6.5 million from corruption accused businessman, Edwin Sodi.

The damning information was revealed in an infographic titled “Web of Patronage,” originally published in the Sunday Times on October 4, 2020, and resurfaced on X yesterday.

Sodi, who is currently facing corruption charges, is alleged to have transferred the substantial sum to Pitso.

According to Democratic Alliance (DA), implications against Sodi in the ongoing Zondo Commission’s report are disturbing and have raised concerns about integrity of government officials.

In a statement on Tuesday, DA in Gauteng said it has taken swift action, writing to MEC Maile and calling for an investigation into the conduct of his Chief of Staff.

The public trust is at stake, and the allegations of misconduct must be thoroughly examined.

According to Public Service Regulations, Pitso would have been required to declare his interests in the matter.

Even if Sodi claims the money was intended for Pitso’s father, regulations mandate the declaration of interests of close relatives as well. Failure to do so would constitute serious misconduct.

DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Economic Development, Mike Moriarty said his party has demanded response from MEC Maile within seven days, urging him to clarify whether Pitso correctly declared his interests and provide an explanation for the R6.5 million transaction.

“If a satisfactory response is not received, the matter will be escalated to the Public Service Commission for further investigation,” said Moriarty.

In a time where transparency and accountability are paramount, Moriarty said  allegations against Pitso must be addressed promptly and decisively.

“The DA remains committed to rooting out corruption and ensuring that government officials are held to the highest ethical,” added Moriarty.

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