DA calls for Mkhize to step aside pending probe outcome
The Democratic Alliance (DA) says Health Minister Zweli Mkhize should step aside pending the finalisation of the probe into procurement irregularities in his department.
In a statement, DA Shadow Minister of Health, Siviwe Gwarube said: It is now clear that this looting of public money has happened under the leadership of Dr Mkhize while there is a glaring conflict of interest.
"It cannot be that the very person entrusted with the Covid-19 response in the country is embroiled in this kind of scandal involving public money. Minister Mkhize should step down pending a full Special Investigative Unit (SIU) investigation.
"The Minister cannot be both the player and referee in an investigation that involves him directly."
READ: Multi-million rand tender awarded to Digital Vibes was irregular: Mkhize
https://www.ecr.co.za/news/news/multi-million-rand-tender-awarded-to-digital-vibes-was-irregular-mkhize/
A forensic investigation has found the Health Department's awarding of a contract to KZN-based company, Digital Vibes was irregular.
The communications firm is said to have received over R150 million between January 2020 and February this year.
It's understood Digital Vibes is run by Mkhize's former personal spokesperson and his former personal assistant.
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Earlier on Wednesday, the minister denied the company was hired to do coronavirus related communication work for the department.
"All public addresses were prepared and drafted by myself and Ministry officials. There were no speeches which were ever prepared by a service provider and all core content was developed by the Department of Health officials."
Mkhize says he didn't benefit from the contract in any way.
