RTMC CFO Liana Moolman Placed on Precautionary Suspension Amid Whistleblower Probe
The Road Traffic Management Corporation has placed its chief financial officer, Liana Moolman, on precautionary suspension amid ongoing investigations into serious whistleblower allegations of financial misconduct and governance failures. This follows the suspension of CEO Advocate Makhosini Msibi on 1 July 2025, who is challenging his removal in the high court. RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane confirmed Moolman’s suspension took effect from 23 September 2025, authorised by interim CEO Refilwe Mongale, to allow fair internal processes without bias. The move relates to reports circulating for months, with KPMG handling a forensic audit that is still underway.
These developments highlight deep concerns at the RTMC, a key body overseeing road safety and traffic management in South Africa. Whistleblower claims point to irregular procurement, abuse of power, and a financial crisis that has led to cost-cutting measures affecting operations. As the agency grapples with a reported deficit, questions arise about leadership and accountability. Outa CEO Wayne Duvenage expressed surprise at Moolman’s suspension, noting reports suggested she raised flags on dubious deals linked to Msibi. This article explores the suspensions, allegations, Msibi’s legal fight, and implications for the RTMC’s role in national road safety.
Background to the Whistleblower Allegations
Serious allegations surfaced through emails from a whistleblower sent to the Department of Transport, Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts chair Songezo Zibi, and The Presidency. These claims detail financial misconduct, irregular procurement, abuse of authority, and governance lapses under Msibi’s leadership since his appointment in 2021. The whistleblower highlighted a financial crisis acknowledged by Msibi in a 31 May 2025 circular to staff, stating the RTMC faces severe liquidity issues and an unsustainable position.
A letter reportedly from the Auditor-General flagged R33.48 million in overspending against the adjusted budget, blaming decisions Msibi made against CFO advice. The claims also tie to a troubled smart card driving licence procurement process, where Outa raised red flags in September 2024 over transparency. Minister Barbara Creecy then urged the Auditor-General to expedite an audit. These issues have eroded trust, with calls for reforms to ensure the RTMC fulfils its mandate of reducing road fatalities and managing traffic effectively.
Msibi’s Suspension and High Court Challenge
Msibi was placed on precautionary suspension on 1 July 2025 following the whistleblower reports. He launched a high court bid to review and set aside the decision, naming the RTMC board, shareholders committee, the corporation itself, and Minister Creecy as respondents. Msibi argues the board overstepped, as the shareholders committee appoints and removes the CEO.
He claims some allegations were probed by Lawtons Africa, finding no wrongdoing but noting procurement weaknesses needing fixes. Msibi says the Auditor-General’s 2024/25 audit, which gave the RTMC a clean bill, investigated the claims and found nothing. He alleges the complaints come from two officials with grudges—one probed for undisclosed business dealings, the other disciplined for Bid Adjudication Committee conduct, with a fraud case opened.
Msibi says his work exposing corrupt officials nationwide has made enemies, saving millions through investigations leading to convictions. He warns his suspension harms the RTMC, stalling key projects and damaging his reputation. Zwane said parties await a court date for the hearing.
Moolman’s Suspension Raises Questions
Moolman joined Msibi on suspension from 23 September 2025, linked to the same whistleblower reports. Zwane said it allows unbiased investigations. The whistleblower claims Moolman failed to manage the budget, leading to a deficit forcing harsh cuts that hurt operations. The 2024/25 financial statements are unpublished, adding to uncertainty.
Outa’s Duvenage was surprised, believing Moolman flagged irregular transactions tied to Msibi. Reports suggest she refused to sign off on dubious deals, positioning her as a whistleblower herself. This twist raises questions about internal dynamics and whether her suspension protects or punishes her role.
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