Department of Transport Launches Independent Probe Into R15m Corruption Claims, Denies Whistleblower Harassment
The National Department of Transport has officially appointed independent law firm Bowmans to investigate serious allegations of financial misconduct involving R15 million in “dubious payments.”
The internal probe follows a prominent exposé published by the Sunday World newspaper on August 30, 2026, which detailed claims made by whistleblower Esethu Hasane.
In response, Acting Director-General Mathabatha Mokonyama ordered an immediate external investigation to verify the claims and check for breaches within the regulatory framework.
While the department emphasizes that it takes financial irregularity claims seriously, it has firmly rejected matching allegations from Hasane regarding workplace victimization and harassment.
According to government officials, Hasane’s multiple legal and institutional bids for protection orders have failed:The Pretoria Magistrate Court dismissed his harassment application with costs and the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council similarly dismissed his case with costs.
Further appeals submitted to both the Public Protector and the Public Service Commission were unsuccessful.
The Department of Transport has urged the public and the whistleblower to remain patient while Bowmans completes its independent probe to determine necessary remedial actions.
