By Zuko Komisa
- President Ramaphosa has ordered an SIU probe into multimillion-rand North West contracts linked to businessman Suliman Carrim.
- The investigation centres on an R168 million transport tender and financial flows involving the late taxi boss Jotham Msibi.
- The inquiry runs parallel to criminal charges against Carrim for failing to appear before the Madlanga Commission.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) inquiry into controversial North West government contracts awarded to businesses associated with businessman Suliman Carrim.
The probe focuses on an R168 million tender issued by the provincial Department of Community Safety and Transport Management to a joint venture comprising Carrim’s Transnat Coach Lines and Ziggy Investments.
Investigators will scrutinise financial transactions connecting the joint venture to the late taxi industry leader Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi, alongside the broader financial affairs of the North West Transport Investment (NTI) agency, which is currently undergoing business rescue.
The investigation follows legal complications for Carrim, who faces criminal charges after missing scheduled appearances at the Madlanga Commission to answer questions regarding alleged corruption and financial links to Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.
Although Carrim cited a severe cardiac event following a gym collapse to excuse his absence, the commission disputed the claim using whistleblower reports and surveillance footage reportedly showing him active in Cape Town.
“The SIU will investigate any unlawful, irregular, or improper conduct by state officials or private parties, as well as any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure.”
