Water Affairs director-general Pam Yako has been put on “special leave” pending the outcome of an investigation into alleged financial irregularities within the department. “No charges have been levelled against Ms Yako or any official of the department and, until informed otherwise by the outcome of the investigation, the director-general remains innocent,” Water Affairs Minister Buyelwa Sonjica said.
A statement issued by the ministry said Sonjica had decided to investigate the department’s finances “following allegations of financial irregularities and information alleging maladministration and mismanagement”.
Sonjica’s statement offered no details about the alleged irregularities. Spokesperson Sputnik Ratau said: “It’s alleged that there could be maladministration and some processes could have been undermined in terms of the procurement system.”
The transition to the new administration appears to have exposed tensions between ministers and directors-general in several departments, despite earlier assurances by President Jacob Zuma when he told top public servants their jobs would be safe. Yako is the fourth top public servant to be suspended in as many weeks.
Ms Yako was appointed Director-General of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry on 1 March 2008.
Pam Yako and H.R.H. the Prince of Orange, The Netherlands, celebrating Global Handwashing Day in October 2008
Source: SAPA / News24.comm 21 Jul 2009 ; Caiphus Kgosana , IOL, 22 Jul 2009 ; DWAF, 29 Feb 2008
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