Saki Mokoena
By Thabo Mosia
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Free State have levied serious allegations against MEC Saki Mokoena, claiming he is embroiled in a fraudulent cattle procurement deal worth R3 million. The EFF’s charges against Mokoena, who has transitioned from being the MEC for Agriculture to the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and Human Settlement, add a layer of complexity to his already contentious political career.
On Thursday, the 22nd of November 2024, Bosanku Msimanga, the EFF Provincial Secretary and Free State Provincial Legislature Party Whip, filed a case of fraud at the Parkweg Police Station. The case implicates officials from the Department of Agriculture, alongside several companies, in a scandal that purportedly saw funds earmarked for traditional leadership support misappropriated.
“It has come to our attention that over R3 million, set aside to purchase cattle for traditional leaders in the province, has been unjustly disbursed to service providers like Waduku, Nkayi and Siya Enterprise, and Mncedise Sencque Scaff, without the knowledge of the department’s accounting officer and CFO,” Msimanga articulated. “Even more troubling is the fact that, to this day, no services have been rendered, yet invoices falsely claiming service delivery have been submitted.”
Msimanga did not mince his words, holding MEC Saki Mokoena accountable. “All of this took place under the capable stewardship of MEC Saki Mokoena. While a case with the Hawks has been opened, it lacks comprehensiveness. Thus, as a member of the Provincial Legislature sitting on the Public Accounts Committee, I will ensure a thorough investigation is pursued,” he declared.
In an exclusive inquiry directed at MEC Saki Mokoena, who now serves as the MEC for CoGTA and Human Settlement in the Free State, a deadline was set for a response by 5 PM on Friday. When approached, MEC Mokoena provided a detailed rebuttal to the accusations, stating: “The procurement of cattle for Free State Traditional Leadership was initiated following an EXCO resolution under former Premier Mxolisi Dukwana. At the time, I was the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development. This decision aimed to support traditional leaders in their constitutional roles. The approval of funds was signed by both the Chief Financial Officer and the Department Head, Dr. Takisi Masiteng.”
Mokoena further expressed frustration over what he termed an unfounded campaign by the EFF. “This seems like a calculated move against the reforms championed by the Free State Premier. It’s more of a political maneuver fueled by rumours and unsubstantiated stories, manifesting as cases opened with the SAPS.”
The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, represented by Moliehi Moeng, confirmed an internal inquiry into irregular transactions. “In May 2024, we identified unaccounted funds and issues in cattle procurement and delivery. Former MEC Mokoena had indeed called for these issues to be investigated further.”
MEC Elzabe Rockman added, “Fraud and corruption erode public trust and we vehemently oppose such practices. While a criminal case has been opened, highlighting similar matters, we encourage all to provide pertinent information for the investigations underway.”
A document corroborating the internal turmoil within the department is a letter dated 10 June 2024. MEC Mokoena requested a report from Dr. T.J. Masiteng, Head of the Department for Agriculture, regarding cattle delivered to traditional leaders. The MEC’s spokesperson, Zimasa Mbewu, revealed that there was no response from Dr. Masiteng.
In a statement issued on 23 November 2024, the EFF expressed skepticism about the department’s actions, “The Department is seemingly concealing criminal activities. Despite MEC Rockman’s admissions, it’s alarming how his predecessor, Saki Mokoena, dismisses allegations. Instead of addressing these claims, Mokoena chooses to attack the EFF.”
The internal discord within the department, coupled with the EFF’s persistent critical stance, paints a picture of a government grappling with internal chaos and public scrutiny. The EFF has vociferously demanded rigorous action from law enforcement agencies. “We expect the authorities to carry out their investigations without political bias or pressure. Those responsible must face consequences without interference,” the statement concluded.
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