Key Takeaways
- The Public Protector (PP) has dismissed a complaint by the Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen regarding alleged inflation of catering costs on the Inkwazi presidential aircraft.
- The complaint was related to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s trips to England, the United States, and a cancelled visit to Turkey.
- A report by the PP found that the allegations were unsubstantiated and all transactions were above board.
- The total catering bill for Ramaphosa’s trip to London and Washington amounted to R139,000, with no alcohol having been ordered.
- The president’s office had to pay R91,000 to the caterer for the late cancellation of his trip to Turkey.
Introduction to the Complaint
The Public Protector (PP), Kholeka Gcaleka, has dismissed a complaint filed by Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen, which alleged the inflation of catering costs on the Inkwazi presidential aircraft. The complaint was filed in 2023 and related to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s trips to England, the United States, and a cancelled visit to Turkey. The allegations stemmed from a City Press article claiming that Ramaphosa and his entourage went on a R600,000 junket aboard the Inkwazi, allegedly including luxury alcohol, chocolates, and other food items. This article sparked controversy and led to Steenhuisen lodging a complaint with the PP, calling for an investigation into alleged maladministration by the president and his entourage.
The Investigation and Findings
Following the complaint, the PP conducted an investigation into the allegations and released a report recently. The report found that the allegations by Steenhuisen were unsubstantiated, and all transactions were above board. According to the report, in September 2022, Ramaphosa flew from Pretoria to London and later to Washington. His delegation included his spokesperson, an adviser, the head of digital communications, and three bodyguards. The total catering bill for this trip amounted to R139,000, with no alcohol having been ordered. This finding contradicts the initial allegations of luxury alcohol and other extravagant items being purchased. The report’s findings suggest that the president and his entourage did not engage in any wasteful or irregular expenditure of government funds.
The Cancelled Trip to Turkey
In addition to the trips to England and the United States, the report also investigated a cancelled trip to Turkey. In June 2023, Ramaphosa’s trip to Turkey was cancelled at the last minute, resulting in his office having to pay R91,000 to the caterer for the late cancellation. This payment was made in accordance with the contract between the presidency and the caterer. The report concludes that this transaction was also above board and did not constitute any wasteful or irregular expenditure of government funds. The cancellation of the trip and the subsequent payment to the caterer were found to be reasonable and in line with standard practices.
Conclusion and Implications
The dismissal of the complaint by the PP brings an end to the controversy surrounding the alleged inflation of catering costs on the Inkwazi presidential aircraft. The report’s findings suggest that the president and his entourage did not engage in any maladministration or wasteful expenditure of government funds. The investigation and report demonstrate the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and ensuring that government funds are used responsibly. The outcome of this investigation also highlights the need for accurate and responsible reporting, as the initial allegations were found to be unsubstantiated. The PP’s report provides a clear and transparent account of the events and transactions in question, and its findings should help to restore public trust in the presidency and the use of government funds.
Final Thoughts and Reflections
The dismissal of the complaint by the PP serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough investigations and fact-based reporting. The initial allegations and subsequent controversy surrounding the catering costs on the Inkwazi presidential aircraft were found to be unfounded, and the report’s findings provide a more accurate account of the events. The investigation and report demonstrate the effectiveness of the PP in holding public officials accountable and ensuring that government funds are used responsibly. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of governance and public accountability, the role of the PP and other institutions remains crucial in promoting transparency and trust in government.