/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

ActionSA is encouraged by indications from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks that thorough investigations are underway regarding serious allegations of corruption, money laundering, and abuse of public funds involving Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, her husband Lawrence Mathae, former Premier and current Free State Provincial Legislature Speaker Mxolisi Dukwana, and New Beginnings CEO Patrick Phuti.

Additionally, On 31 October 2024, ActionSA received a formal acknowledgement from the Office of the Public Protector, confirming receipt of our urgent request submitted on 28 October 2024. The Public Protector’s office informed us that it will assess our complaint to determine if the allegations fall within its jurisdiction, with an expected response within the next 10 working days of issuing the letter of acknowledgement.

These responses follow ActionSA’s actions on 23 October 2024, where criminal charges were filed with SAPS Bloemfontein, and we petitioned the Public Protector to investigate potential violations under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act (PRECCA), the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

In our complaint, we specifically requested investigations into the following areas:

Violations of Section 3 of PRECCA for alleges general corruption.

Violations of Sections 4 and 6 of POCA for potential money laundering activities.

Violations of Section 38 of PFMA for alleged misappropriation of public funds.

Furthermore, the complaint details that Mr. Phuti, who revealed these questionable transactions, should also be investigated due to his participation in the dealings. Notably, Tau Pele Construction has emerged as an implicated entity, allegedly assuming a road contract initially awarded to Mr. Phuti, as recent communications suggest. 

ActionSA remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and the rule of law. We will monitor the progress of these investigations closely and will continue to advocate for a transparent process that ensures the people of the Free State are served by leaders with integrity.

Issued by ActionSA FS Chairperson Patricia Kopane