DA to request Public Protector investigation into Maharaj’s ministerial stay

17 August 2015

The DA will today write to the Public Protector, Adv. Thuli Madonsela, to request that she investigate reports in the media that former Presidential Spokesperson, Mac Maharaj, received housing for five years – at taxpayer’s expense – in the Cabinet compound, Bryntirion Estate. 

This housing estate is for the use of Ministers and Deputy Ministers. The fact that special privileges have been afforded to a close Presidential staffer points to a flagrant abuse of public resources, which should have been spent on providing basic services for those most in need. 

The DA will be submitting written questions to both President Zuma and the Minister of Public Works, Thulas Nxesi, to seek further clarity as to:

What was the total cost for Mr Maharaj’s stay in the Ministerial Compound;

Whether Maharaj was expected to make any contribution towards his stay at the Compound; 

Whether reports that Mr Maharaj – who earned more than R2 million a year – had access to free cleaning and a personal driver are true; and what amount such expenses accrued to. 

Whether the current Presidential Spokesperson is enjoying the same privileges; and

Whether any other staff members have been afforded such privileges, and on whose request.

Mr Maharaj should break his silence immediately and provide South Africans with explanation as to these very serious allegations. He should also be prepared to explain whether he will take steps to pay back the money he now owes South Africans.

It is unacceptable that a senior, close ally of the President receives such privileges, when so many South Africans live without access to proper shelter and services. Mr Maharaj should be ashamed.

The DA is determined to ensure that this matter is properly investigated and that all those responsible for this abuse of power and public money are held to account.

Statement issued by Phumzile Van Damme MP, DA National Spokesperson, August 17 2015