Correspondence
The Public Protector’s probe into allegations of improper conduct by the officials of the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison has found out that the appointment of Hastings Farrington Nel as unlawful. Nel was allegedly appointed as Project Manager for key infrastructure projects. Among others the position required the candidates to have Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering coupled with several years of experience. Nel was appointed despite not having proper qualifications. The probe by the Public Protector’s office came after Economic Freedom Fighters lodged a complain with the office in December 2020. The party said the appointment of Nel was not in accordance with the law.
The department advertised in November 2018 but according to the report Nel was the only candidate for the position. The report revealed that then MEC appointed Nel despite an advice by senior legal administration officer who was against the appointment.
The PPs report also revealed that then Northern Cape Premier allegedly might have influenced the appointment of Nel as they were business partners and grew up together.
The Public Protector’s office has recommended that the Premier of the Northern cape take cognizance of the report and take action against the then MEC of the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison.
Comments are closed.