Infrastructure
Question by:
Hon Pat Lekker
Answered by:
Hon Tertuis Simmers
Question Number:
25
Question Body:
- Whether he is aware of a formal complaint or whistleblower communication sent to the Head of Department in February 2025, detailing serious allegations of bullying, harassment, abuse of power and an inappropriate romantic relationship between a senior manager and a subordinate in the Directorate Land and Asset Management; if so, (a) on what date did he become aware of this communication and/or its contents, (b) what specific actions has he taken since the date on which he became aware of the allegations to date to ensure that the (i) complaint was properly investigated, (ii) implicated official was subjected to disciplinary procedures and (iii) complain-ants or whistleblowers were protected from victimisation or retaliation;
- whether his Department initiated a formal investigation into the allegations contained in the February 2025 whistleblower correspondence; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the details of the investigation, including (i) the date on which the investigation was launched, (ii) the person or unit appointed to investigate, (iii) the scope and terms of reference of the investigation, (iv) the current status or outcome of the investigation and (v) whether the implicated senior manager has been suspended pending the finalisation of the process;
- whether his Department received any complaints from staff members in the Direct-orate Land and Asset Management regarding a toxic or unsafe working environment since January 2023; if so, (a) how many such complaints were lodged, (b) what was the nature of each complaint and (c) what actions were taken in response to each complaint?
Answer Body:
- Yes, I am now aware.
- I was informed by the HOD on Monday 2 June. As the incorrect email address for the HOD was used on the communication in question, the HOD was unaware of its existence until an extensive search occasioned by the appearance of the 30 May Written Question Paper.
- I have satisfied myself that the applicable public official, in this case the HOD, has taken the necessary action to ensure that (i), (ii) and (iii) are appropriately handled.
- A formal investigation has been initiated by the HOD
- The investigation was initiated on the day the whistleblower communication was obtained and is being conducted by the Harassment Contact Advisor as prescribed on the basis of terms of reference which cover the allegations contained in the complaint received. As per the prescribed procedure the official named in the communication has not yet been suspended.
- Yes, the department has received complaints since January 2023
- Three complaints were received, but one was subsequently withdrawn.
- The February 2025 complaint, which was received only on 2 June 2025, alleges instances of unprofessional behaviour, harassment and an improper relationship with a junior official.
The May 2025 complaint alleges instances of unprofessional behaviour, managerial overreach and poor people management.
- In both instances, the investigation is on-going.
Date:
Friday, May 30, 2025
