By The Free State MEC for DESTEA Mr Thabo Meeko says he will not interfere with the investigation process into Mr Kenny Dichabe’s suspension on allegation of financial misconduct.
The Board of the Free State Gambling, Liquor, and Tourism Authority (FSGLTA) has placed Dichabe on precautionary suspension pending the investigation of allegations of financial misconduct. To this, Meeko said, as the Executive Authority over FSGLTA, he will give the board space to exercise its oversight role over the allegations as per regulation of the PFMA and as required by code of good corporate governance.
“I wish to emphasize the fact that the board is the Accounting Authority of the entity in terms of Sections 49/50 & 51 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and has fiduciary responsibility to deal with instances of allegations of financial misconduct,” said Meeko.
While waiting for a comprehensive report from the board regarding the matter at hand, MEC Thabo Meeko said it has come to his attention that there have been various allegations of fraud around the processing and issuance of liquor licenses; as such, the MEC has decided to institute an independent investigation into the processing and issuance of liquor licenses by the entity.
The investigation will cover the period of two financial years from 2022/23 to 2023/24 financial years.
“This is part of MEC’s commitment in strengthening good governance and dealing with all allegations of corrupt or fraudulent activities.
MEC Meeko wishes to assure the public and the people of the Free State that good governance will be adhered to at all times and that any allegations against the DESTEA, FDC and FSGLTA officials will be treated seriously and be thoroughly investigated,” said the Spokesperson of DESTEA Mr. Mojalefa Mphapang.
MEC Thabo Meeko further committed to continue working tirelessly to ensure that the Free State is attractive to investors by reducing red tape and providing investment-compatible environment in order to create more job opportunities.
