The Board of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) has placed four senior executives on precautionary suspension with immediate effect.
In a statement, the board said the decision was taken to allow for an independent and unhindered investigation into certain administrative and governance matters within the organisation.
The suspended officials include acting Chief Executive Officer Phathutshedzo Lukhwareni, Chief Financial Officer Bernice Potgieter, Chief Governance Officer Mampe Kumalo, and the Head in the Office of the CEO.
“These precautionary measures do not in any way constitute a finding of wrongdoing against the affected officials but are intended to ensure the integrity and transparency of the investigative process.
“However, it reflects the Board’s determination to act in the best interests of the organisation, safeguard public trust, and uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in the management of public funds.
“During this period, interim arrangements have been put in place to ensure business continuity and that the Fund continues to deliver on its mandate to serve the people of South Africa,” read the statement.
The Fund said it remains committed to sound corporate governance, accountability, and the highest ethical standards in all its operations.
Furthermore, the RAF said it will not provide further comment at this stage, while the investigation is ongoing.
“Updates will be communicated as appropriate and in accordance with due process.
“The Board assures all stakeholders, claimants, and partners that the Fund’s operations remain stable and that service delivery continues uninterrupted,” added the statement.
The entity has been appearing before the Parliament Standing Committee on Public Accounts Inquiry, probing the affairs of the RAF.
Friday’s suspension comes six months after the Fund’s CEO, Collins Letsoalo, was placed on leave “until the conclusion of the relevant investigations by the Special Investigations Unit into the affairs of the entity.”
