Parliament says SAA-Takatso deal must be referred to SIU

Parliament’s Public Enterprises Portfolio Committee has called for an investigation into the controversial transfer action involving the appointment of the Takatso Consortium as the preferred bidder to acquire 51 percent of South African Airways (SAA).

Following allegations raised by former Director-General Kgathatso Tlhakudi, the committee has expressed concerns over the transparency of the bidding process. Tlhakudi asserted that Takatso was not initially among the companies that submitted bids, a claim that the department has failed to refute.

Additionally, the committee has questioned the valuation of SAA assets, particularly in light of the transaction’s recent cancellation announced by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan.

Committee Chairperson Khaya Magaxa emphasized the need for law enforcement agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly. He said they are specifically interested in examining allegations of signature forgery in the strategic equity partner appointment process.

In response to these concerns, the committee is recommending that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) be tasked with unravelling the complexities of the SAA and Takatso transaction, ensuring accountability and transparency in the process.