The Department of Communications (DOC) has noted with concern media reports regarding the dossiers that contain allegations of widespread corruption at fixed-line operator Telkom.
However, the DOC says it is confident that the operator is acting swiftly to conduct investigations into the allegations.
Minister of communications Roy Padayachie says he is “keen to ensure that corporate governance principles are upheld without fail in all institutions that fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Communications, by working closely with the boards of directors of these entities”.
The dossiers surfaced last week, after the Communications Workers Union (CWU) distributed the documents to media. The union acknowledges that it's a CWU report, but it says it is not yet willing to stand by the allegations contained in it.
Gallant Roberts, CWU secretary and spokesperson, says the union will investigate the matter and state its position at a later stage. When questioned as to why the report was made available to the media prematurely, he explained that it was in the public's best interest to be made aware of the allegations.
The dossier zeroes in on allegations of misconduct and gross negligence at Telkom's failed Nigerian subsidiary Multi-Links. Particular reference is made to allegations and calls for criminal charges to be brought against former Telkom CEO Reuben September for his role in the subsidiary's failure.
fraud and nepotism. Telkom SA MD Pinky Moholi has, in her personal capacity, refuted allegations made against her.
Telkom has acknowledged the allegations levied against it in the dossiers. However, the company argues that not only has it been aware of the allegations, but is already at various stages of investigations into the issues.
Padayachie says he is confident the Telkom board of directors is “well capacitated to deal with the matter at hand.
“I'm encouraged to note that the board and its senior management view the allegations in a serious light, and that they have committed to institute a thorough investigation into these issues.
“I urge them [Telkom] to move swiftly in attending to these allegations to restore investor and public confidence in this crucial asset,” concludes Padayachie.
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