Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Senzeni Zokwana on Friday said he had served preliminary charges of gross misconduct on the director-general of his department, Mike Mlengana.
Mlengana was placed on precautionary suspension two weeks ago, pending an internal probe.
“The DG faces charges of alleged gross misconduct relating to misappropriation of state funds and failure to comply with the Public Finance Management Act and failing to disclose his business partner’s alleged involvement in certain department tenders,” Zokwana said in a statement.
“Mr Mlengana also faces charges of alleged insubordination in relation to failing to suspend department officials involved in fraudulent activities; and the contravention of the Marine Living Resources Act. “
Zokwana signalled that he may bring additional charges against Mlengana as the investigation progresses.
He said contrary to remarks Mlengana made to the media recently, he would be given a fair hearing and it would be concluded expeditiously in order not to compromise the work of the department.
– African News Agency (ANA)
