For Immediate Release
26th August 2022
SATAWU CALLS FOR GOVERNEMT TO PROTECT PRASA WHISTLEBLOWER
The South African Transport and Allied Workers (SATAWU) calls for Government to protect Ms Martha Ngoye, one of the officials who spoke out against multibillion rand Swifambo and Siyangena contracts and corruption that took place at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). SATAWU understands that Ms Ngoye is currently suspended from her position as the head of legal at PRASA, as an internal process to investigate the matter. SATAWU understands that Ms Ngoye is currently suspended from her position as the head of legal at PRASA, an internal process to investigate the matter.
The South African Transport and Allied Workers is of the view that PRASA is at its knees because of corruption, money laundering and maladministration that has been happening in the entity for years. We cannot allow PRASA to collapse, we are against the privatisation of the entity, however for that to be prevented we need people in these Departments and Entities to speak out, but also Government must work with us to protect these people at all costs.
We have also noted Ms Ngoye’s concerns that she fears for her safety and her family. Her concerns are valid and we therefore pleading with government and South African Police Service to protect her. She also mentioned that she called the office of the President, several times with no help. It was the President that said Whistleblowers will be protected but that has not been the case.
If Government is serious about fighting corruption in this country, then they should protect people who are speaking out against corruption. SATAWU understands that a lot of people are afraid of speaking out because of lack of protection from Government. The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union will also be writing to the Government in this regard.
Issued by SATAWU
General Secretary Cde Jack Mazibuko: 082 660 4793
Deputy General Secretary Cde Anele Kiet: 071 021 1903
Head of Communications Amanda Tshemese: 062 945 721