SIU, Gauteng Integrity Commission Sign Deal To Strengthen Governance, Ethics

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Gauteng Provincial Legislature's Integrity Commission have signed an agreement to improve governance, ethics and integrity through teamwork.

According to a statement from the SIU, the two organizations will take part in activities such as responding to complaints, sharing reports, exchanging information about governance and working together on projects.

The cooperation will also include sharing practical experiences, organizing roundtable discussions and referring complaints between the two parties. They will create specific plans for implementation through project-specific agreements and a committee will conduct quarterly assessments to monitor progress.

Integrity Commissioner at the legislature Koko Mashigo said that signing the memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishes a strong basis for a successful and beneficial partnership.

"This partnership is built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision of making a broader impact by ensuring that the institutions we represent and all spheres of government conform to the highest standard of ethical behavior," Mashigo said, SA News reported.

She added, "By combining our resources and leveraging your skills and competencies, we are destined to make a meaningful impact in our respective institutions."

SIU Head Advocate Andy Mothibi shared that this agreement is another important step in upholding high standards of integrity in the public sector. He expressed happiness at the MoU, calling it the start of a new chapter in their partnership.

Mothibi emphasized that they are not just signing a document; they are making a commitment to themselves and to the public to work together, innovate and create value beyond what they could achieve alone.

He added that this MoU is based on mutual respect and a shared vision. Mothibi believes that by combining their strengths, they can significantly advance the fight against corruption, mismanagement and unethical practices in South Africa.

Last month, SIU was authorized to look into serious mismanagement at Transnet including the reinstatement of Siyabonga Gama, the former CEO of Transnet Freight Rail.

This announcement came after Ramaphosa signed proclamations 181, 182, 183, and 184 of 2024, which allow the SIU to investigate claims of serious mismanagement at Transnet, the Gauteng Provincial Department of Human Settlement, the Umzumbe Local Municipality and the Masilonyana Local Municipality.