The Citizen reports that Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has slammed claims that the newly-appointed chief executive officer (CEO) of the Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa), Zolani Matthews, is too old for the position.

The minister said these allegations were sensational and unfounded. On Friday, it was reported by GroundUp that Matthews did not qualify for the post due to Prasa’s own policies, which provided that employees should retire at 63 years. Matthews is 64 years old. Mbalula said in a statement that in terms of due process, following Cabinet’s approval of the appointment of the new Prasa CEO, the agency’s board was expected to ensure all requisite processes were followed in affecting Matthews’ appointment. “These include ensuring requirements of Prasa policies are adhered to, obtaining a security clearance, and declaration of financial interests. Once the board has concluded the contracting process, we are looking forward to working with Mr Matthews once he assumes his duties,” Mbalula said. Matthews was announced as the new CEO of Prasa last Saturday. Meanwhile, in a separate statement issued by Prasa’s board on Friday, the agency said it was dismayed by reports that Matthews’ appointment was in breach of the parastatal’s policies.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard at The Citizen

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