KZN water board CEO investigated for fraud

The board of Umgeni Water has appointed a team of accountants and forensic auditors to probe graft claims against the body’s CEO‚ Cyril Gamede.

Allegations of tender rigging‚ kickbacks and contract manipulation were contained in an anonymous e-mail which was circulated three weeks ago. The recipients of the e-mail included a list of cabinet ministers and the Public Protector.

Gamede was placed on precautionary suspension ahead of the investigation‚ which began this week.

In a statement issued on Thursday‚ spokesperson Shami Harichunder said that the probe would be completed as soon as is “practically possible”.

“A firm of external auditors and accountants has been appointed to conduct a comprehensive investigation. The investigation commenced on Tuesday this week and will be completed as soon as practically possible. All relevant allegations will be investigated and the outcomes of this investigation will inform the Board on what further action – if any – should be taken. It is important that the veracity or otherwise of the allegations is established‚” said Harichunder.

He said that all those fingered in the e-mail are to be presumed innocent until proved guilty.

“Umgeni Water is committed to clean governance and adheres fully to the laws of South Africa and codes of good conduct. The decision to initiate an investigation and place the Chief Executive under precautionary suspension is in line with this commitment‚” Harichunder said.

- TimesLIVE