Khusela Diko could be fired for failing to declare financial interests to employer

Presidential spokesperson Khusela Diko could be fired from her post depending on the severity of the implications of her failure to declare her financial interests to her employer.

The Presidency issued a statement at the weekend, stating that although Diko had been cleared of wrongdoing over the personal protective equipment (PPE) scandal, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) raised concerns over her undeclared financial interests.

Diko has been on a leave of absence for nearly six months now after it emerged that the Gauteng government had awarded her husband, Madzikane, a multimillion-rand tender to provide personal protective equipment.

This decision was reversed and the money was never paid.

The Public Service Financial Disclosure framework makes it clear that senior public servants have to disclose all their registrable interests no later than 30 April each year.

The interests vary from shares, directorships, ownership, and extra income among others.

While it is not yet known what interests the SIU flagged in their investigation of Diko, the regulations are clear that anyone found in contravention must be charged with misconduct.

The sanctions however differ based on various factors.

Public policy specialist Dale McKinley explains the different scenarios: “If criminal activity is uncovered in the process, then the individual could face liability of criminal charges and obviously that is quite rare but that is a possibility.”

Meanwhile, the Presidency has said it has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Diko over the SIU findings.

-EWN

In other news – Does it come with food? – R940 000 Smeg Fridge leaves Somizi in shock

It is no secret that Somizi Mhlongo-Motaung loves the finner things in life, which is super as he can afford it thanks to his illustrious career. The personality who has a SMEG kitchen made a quick stop into the store to get a Dolce and Gabbana kettle and toaster.

While he was there he saw a beautiful fridge and enquired about its price. The sales lady said it cost a whopping R940 000 rand to which Somizi quipped with: Learn More

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