South Africa’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) has launched a full inquiry into the Road Accident Fund (RAF) following growing allegations of mismanagement, financial waste, and serious governance failures.
The committee said its decision comes after months of frustration over the RAF Board and management’s failure to provide clear and complete information. SCOPA plans to approve the terms of reference on July 1, with the investigation starting after the August parliamentary recess.
Among the most pressing concerns is the reported appointment of executives with troubling histories. Despite warnings, these individuals were given oversight of large sums of public money without adequate vetting. SCOPA also flagged RAF’s repeated refusal to reveal how and where funds are being kept.
Adding to the concern is the prolonged failure to fill crucial executive roles—like Chief Claims Officer and Head of Legal—even as decisions with major financial consequences are being made or delayed. SCOPA says these gaps compromise oversight and accountability.
The inquiry will also investigate multiple whistleblower reports involving over R1 billion in alleged supply chain irregularities. Internal controls, according to the committee, seem to have been ignored.
Suspended RAF CEO Collins Letsoalo, who controversially held two top positions and received a bonus for doing so, is among those whose actions may come under scrutiny.
SCOPA Chairperson Songezo Zibi said the scale of complaints demands a thorough, fair investigation. “This inquiry is critical to restoring the RAF’s ability to operate lawfully and in the public’s interest,” he said. All implicated individuals will be invited to testify under oath.
Political party ActionSA has backed the move and has formally asked Transport Minister Barbara Creecy to dismiss the entire RAF Board. They have also tabled a motion in Parliament to debate the fund’s alleged corruption and incompetence.
The upcoming inquiry aims to uncover the truth and restore public trust in the RAF, which plays a vital role in compensating victims of road accidents across South Africa.