Transport official faces suspension over alleged irregular appointment

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has started the process of placing a senior official on precautionary suspension following an investigation into an alleged irregular appointment.

The matter involves Mr P.O. Melane, who was appointed as Deputy Director: Employee Relations.

According to the department, an independent fact-finding investigation was conducted under the leadership of its Chief Risk Officer. It examined the recruitment process, qualifications used during the appointment and submissions from those involved.

Following the findings, the Head of Department initiated the precautionary suspension process pending disciplinary proceedings.

Melane will remain on full pay and will be given an opportunity to exercise his right to a fair disciplinary process.

The investigation also identified other officials whose conduct may warrant disciplinary action. The department said further precautionary suspensions could follow.

Their identities will not be released at this stage.

The department has now introduced additional oversight of recruitment processes, including further scrutiny by the Office of the Head of Department before appointments are finalised.

It said corrective and disciplinary action would be taken wherever irregular appointments are identified.