The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in KwaZulu-Natal has suspended another senior official and levelled several accusations against him.
It has suspended Sikhumbuzo Shabangu, a director in the office of the Head of Department (HoD). The suspension was communicated to him in a letter dated May 13, which was signed off by the acting HoD, Dr Vish Govender.
Suspended with full pay
His suspension is with full pay pending an investigation against him.
According to the suspension letter, Shabangu is alleged to have committed gross misconduct against the department. He did this by suppressing material information to the detriment of his employer. And this is regarding the appointment of various officials who have commenced employment. The department is now contractually bound to them.
He is also accused of acting in concert with the suspended HoD, Siboniso Majola. They colluded to facilitate and manipulate departmental documents to ensure the appointment and preference of individuals ahead of others.
Altered or doctored information
Furthermore, Shabangu is accused of being in possession of substantially altered or doctored information. This does not form part of his duties or arises out of his scope of employment. Also/or withholding/concealing critical information from his employer. This was despite the fact that he was allegedly aware that the information had the potential to expose his employer to legal and audit irregularities.
It is alleged that he only disclosed the information to further his factional interests.
“Please note that your suspension is a precautionary measure only. And that it does not constitute a judgment, as specifically provided for in clause 2.7(2)(b) of Chapter 7 of the SMS Handbook. And you are advised that for the duration of your precautionary suspension:
“You may not, except with the express, prior, written, authority of the Acting Head of Department engage, or participate, in any activities whatsoever relating to your position as Director: Office of the Head of Department
Strict conditions
b) Enter any premises or offices of the Department; or
c) Communicate in person, through any other persons, or by any other means, with any official or service provider involved in, or connected with, any official business of the Department,” reads part of the suspension letter.
Immediately after Shabangu was suspended, the senior staff in the office were sent a memo alerting them that he is now out of the building.
The department confirmed that Shabanggu has been suspended.
“We can confirm that a suspension has been issued against Mr Shabangu. However, we cannot divulge the details around his suspension. This is an internal matter that is in its infant stage.
Department confirms suspension
“It is important to note that from time to time, there may be a suspension within the department. These are quite normal and are not by any means an indication or indictment of any kind against an official.
“As KZN Public Works, we remain committed and guided by the belief of innocence till proven guilty. And as such, the process of this matter shall be guided by facts and official findings,” the department said in response to a query by Sunday World.
Shabangu did not respond after undertaking to do so.
