Pretoria: Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has confirmed the resignation of Independent Development Trust (IDT) CEO, Tebogo Malaka, effective from 31 January 2026.
According to South African Government News Agency, Malaka was suspended in August last year following the release of an independent report into the R836 million Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) oxygen plant project, which was intended to supply oxygen plants to hospitals nationwide. The report by PricewaterhouseCoopers recommended disciplinary action against Malaka for not preventing or addressing violations that might have caused financial losses to the state.
Other officials recommended for disciplinary action include David Motsatse, in his role as the BEC Secretariat, and Dr. Molebedi Sisi, the General Manager for Supply Chain Management at the IDT.
Macpherson stated, "While Ms. Malaka resigned before the disciplinary process could be concluded, I welcome the fact that her resignation comes without a golden handshake. Importantly, her resignation does not immunise her from criminal investigations or any civil proceedings that may arise." He emphasized that accountability remains a priority, urging law enforcement to expedite their investigations and take action if necessary.
The Minister pledged to continue addressing misconduct within the entity, highlighting progress made since the IDT board's appointment last year. "However, the resignation does not end the problems at the IDT but is a welcome step in our continued reform agenda in the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, which is anchored on ethical governance which puts the South African public first," he added.
In a brief statement, the IDT confirmed Malaka's departure without exit compensation and announced that Mr. Sfiso Nsibande, seconded from the Construction Industry Development Board, would continue as Acting CEO to ensure stability and continuity. The Board will soon begin the process of appointing a permanent Chief Executive Officer and affirmed its commitment to cooperate with ongoing investigations that might lead to criminal or civil proceedings.