News24 reports that the axe could fall on 16 KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) education officials caught red-handed in a R2.5-million mobile toilet scam after a web of collusion and price-fixing was revealed.

On Monday, the Special Tribunal ordered KZN Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka to immediately launch disciplinary proceedings against officials who orchestrated what the court described as “a fraudulent scheme to procure goods and services without necessary authorisation”. The court exposed how contractor Hawulethu was “unjustifiably enriched” through a staggering 100% markup on chemical toilets for schools, while charging for services never rendered during school holidays.

“The officials were aware or should have been aware of the code of conduct, procedures and other regulations ... Their negligence has accordingly resulted in irregular expenditure,” the tribunal pointed out. Education spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi reacted: “We note the statement by the SIU; we will have a look at it and then ventilate accordingly in terms of what to do next in that regard.” The tribunal ordered Hawulethu to repay all profits with interest and provide audited accounts within 30 days, while facing the legal costs of the entire case. Teachers’ union Naptosa commented: “Every rand lost to corruption is a rand stolen from learners, educators, and communities who rely on a functional public education system. This judgment sends a clear message that no one is above the law.”

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Anelisa Kubheka at News24 (subscription / trial registration required)
• Read too, Special Tribunal hammers KZN education officials for corrupt contract, at GroundUp

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