Pretoria: The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has raised concerns regarding allegations that the Moriel Infrastructure Group obtained multiple gradings from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) on a single day. This development follows a recent social media video that featured Lawrence Mudzinganyama, associated with Moriel Infrastructure Group, in a threatening altercation involving women.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Board of the multi-disciplinary engineering, procurement, and construction contracting group announced its decision to sever ties with Mudzinganyama immediately after the incident at Vlamo restaurant. The CIDB, an agency under the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, is tasked with leading industry stakeholders in construction development, aiming to enhance the construction sector's contribution to South Africa's economy and society.
The Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure highlighted that allegations imply Moriel Infrastructure Group may not have fulfilled all necessary criteria for the gradings they received. These gradings might have been utilized to secure contracts across different government spheres. Consequently, the Minister has instructed the CIDB to promptly investigate these allegations and report back as soon as possible.
Mudzinganyama, who served as Moriel Infrastructure Group's Executive Chairman and a Director, will no longer represent or act on behalf of the company. The Board emphasized that this decision aligns with the company's dedication to the highest standards of conduct and accountability. The incident captured in the video is deemed inconsistent with the organization's values.
Moriel Infrastructure Group has clearly stated its condemnation of violence, threats, abuse, and intimidation, particularly against women and vulnerable individuals. The company acknowledges the gravity of gender-based violence in South Africa and is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for its employees, stakeholders, and the broader community.