Rohan Persad, Dube TradePort’s CEO who has resigned amid allegations of corruption.
The government’s anti-corruption task team is set to investigate allegations of kickbacks at Dube TradePort Corporation that have seen its long-time CEO, Rohan Persad, resign. There could also be a commission of inquiry.
The KwaZulu-Natal cabinet said it fully supported the decision by Dube TradePort’s board to refer the matter to the task team set up by President Jacob Zuma. It had received a full briefing from the board, which would continue to report to the cabinet on the continuing investigations.
The cabinet welcomed the report and said that it endorsed the course of action pursued by the board since allegations of improper and illegal conduct surfaced regarding the management and operation of the Dube TradePort cargo terminal.
The board, chaired by Bridget Gasa, tabled the findings of a probity firm that investigated the procurement process that led to the appointment of World Flight Services SA as a cargo terminal operator at the Tradeport.
“We appreciate the work that has been done by the board so far. We look forward to the finalisation of all the investigations… to ensure uninterrupted efficiency of operations at Dube Tradeport, which is a jewel in the crown of KwaZulu-Natal,” said Premier Zweli Mkhize.
“This is our flagship project which is both strategic and catalytic in unblocking international trade between KwaZulu-Natal and the world. We can’t allow it to be derailed by any improper conduct or dark clouds hanging over it.
“When all the investigations are complete, we reserve the right as this cabinet to explore further avenues to assist us to understand fully what happened. Depending on the outcomes, this might include a commission of inquiry,” he added.
Mkhize said cabinet was “extremely pleased” with both the speed and manner the board has dealt with the matter.
“There is absolutely no suggestion that the organisation is falling apart at the seams or that any of the other projects have been similarly tainted. The organisation is stable, firm and its systems are robust. We have been assured that day-to-day business continues,” he said.
