AmaBhungane investigative journalist Azarrah Karrim has detailed how former Public Works Minister Sihle Zikalala and Independent Development Trust (IDT) board chairperson Kwazi Mshengu allegedly obstructed a National Treasury investigation into a controversial R45-million lease deal.
The investigation, published in a two-part series by AmaBhungane, exposes how IDT CEO Dr. Thandiwe Malaka allegedly approved the lease beyond her delegated authority and without board approval. According to Karrim, Malaka signed the lease with a politically connected company before seeking retroactive board approval by submitting an unsigned version of the agreement.
How the Probe Was Derailed
Karrim revealed that National Treasury had prepared a draft report and consulted the Hawks before Mshengu intervened. After Zikalala replaced the previous IDT board, Mshengu halted Treasury’s investigation, redirecting it to Zikalala’s department.
Instead of a forensic probe, the department conducted an “assurance audit” that only examined procurement processes—not Malaka’s conduct. Internal auditors reportedly warned that their mandate was too limited to investigate conflicts of interest or whistleblower claims. Despite this, Zikalala later endorsed Malaka’s permanent appointment as CEO, claiming no wrongdoing was found.
Political Timing Raises Suspicions
Malaka’s appointment was finalized just nine days before the 2024 national elections, fueling speculation of political maneuvering. Karrim noted that Mshengu signed off on the appointment as the new Government of National Unity (GNU) ministers were being sworn in, raising questions about accountability.
Calls for Accountability
With the Hawks and Treasury reportedly gathering evidence, pressure mounts on new Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson to act. Karrim urged the IDT to:
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Recommission National Treasury’s original investigation.
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Re-examine the failed court bid to cancel the lease (which Malaka herself deposed an affidavit for, despite her alleged conflict of interest).
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Address Malaka’s silence and alleged social media campaigns targeting journalists.
Malaka has not responded to AmaBhungane’s queries, while Zikalala and Mshengu face scrutiny over their roles in suppressing the probe.
As the new IDT board prepares to take office in July, all eyes are on whether the GNU will enforce accountability—or allow another scandal to fade unchecked.