Power utility Eskom says its internal investigation into alleged irregularities involving diesel procurement
Image: SA Government News Agency
Power utility Eskom says its internal investigation into alleged irregularities involving diesel procurement and storage contracts is now in its final stages.
This comes after allegations by AfriForum that Eskom may be losing hundreds of millions of rand due to possible irregularities and governance failures in its diesel procurement and storage arrangements, including claims that a completed forensic report points to potential misconduct.
In a statement released to the media on Thursday, Eskom said the investigation was launched as part of its normal governance and risk processes and is now in its final stages.
The utility said the matter is still subject to internal legal and assurance checks, and it cannot comment on the details at this point.
"As part of its ongoing governance, risk and assurance processes, Eskom’s newly established Group Investigations and Security Department launched an investigation into possible irregularities relating to the procurement of diesel fuel and storage contracts," the utility said.
"Eskom can confirm the investigation is now in its final stages of completion and remains subject to internal governance, legal and assurance processes".
The state-owned utility added that it supports the reporting of any suspected wrongdoing through its whistleblowing systems, and that all such reports are treated seriously.
"Eskom supports and encourages the reporting of any concerns or alleged wrongdoing through its established whistleblowing and reporting mechanisms and treats all such information with the necessary seriousness and confidentiality," Eskom added.
"Eskom is also aware of the interest expressed by AfriForum and other stakeholders in relation to this matter. Given that the matter is still pending, Eskom is not in a position to engage on the details or comment further at this stage. Any updates will be communicated at an appropriate time, in line with applicable legal, governance and regulatory requirements".
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business