Prasa Group Human Capital Chief Naledi Modibedi placed on precautionary suspension
PRASA suspends Group Chief Human Capital Officer Naledi Modibedi
Image: Prasa
The embattled Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has confirmed the precautionary suspension of its Group Chief Human Capital Officer, Naledi Modibedi, effective September 29, 2025.
The move comes amid circulating reports alleging tender irregularities linked to PRASA’s pension fund management.
In an exclusive inquiry by IOL, a PRASA spokesperson responded to the swirling speculation, categorically denying any connection between the suspension and tender irregularities.
“Ms Modibedi has not been placed on precautionary suspension because of tender irregularities,” the statement reads, stating that the suspension follows PRASA’s established disciplinary policies and procedures.
The inquiry also touched on concerns from previously conducted psychometric tests by HR consulting firm Omnicor.
Last year, the Sunday Independent published a story revealing Omnicor's January 2023 report, highlighting potential challenges relating to Modibedi’s performance, specifically difficulties in processing unfamiliar information under time constraints.
However, PRASA insists that such assessments are just one of several factors considered during executive recruitment and ongoing evaluations.
It strongly condemns what it describes as an “unethical breach of privacy” regarding the disclosure of these results.
“Psychometric tests have their strengths and limitations. They are not definitive measures and are complemented by other assessment methods such as experience, interviews, and practical tests,” PRASA clarified in its response, noting that Modibedi’s suspension is unrelated to the test outcomes.
PRASA further stressed the confidentiality of internal disciplinary processes and urged caution against speculation until the ongoing investigation and formal hearing are completed.
The agency promised to communicate the results of the inquiry in due course.
The precise nature of the allegations prompting the suspension has not been disclosed, with PRASA underscoring the importance of due process and fairness to the employee involved.
IOL will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za
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