DPWI pledges full cooperation as SIU probes North West road contract

The National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has pledged its full cooperation with a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into the awarding of a road maintenance project in the North West.

The investigation follows a proclamation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa authorising the SIU to investigate the project for the special maintenance of Road P152/1 from Setlagole and Road P34/4 in Delareyville.

In a statement on Thursday the department said it welcomed the investigation and was committed to assisting the SIU where necessary.

DPWI Director-General Sifiso Mdakane has already engaged with the North West provincial administration, informing its Head of Department of the national department's readiness to cooperate.

Mdakane has also requested that all relevant documents and information be made available to investigators without delay to ensure the probe is not hindered.

The records required for the investigation fall under the administration of the provincial department.

The national department acknowledged its previous involvement in the Section 100 intervention at the North West Department of Public Works and Roads.

According to the DPWI, its role during the intervention was focused on restoring normal operations, strengthening accountability and ensuring that systems were functioning effectively to support the delivery of public infrastructure.

The department said its cooperation with the SIU forms part of its broader commitment to good governance and transparency.

“The DPWI remains committed to good governance, transparency, and ensuring that public infrastructure resources are managed in the best interests of communities,” the department said.

The SIU investigation is expected to scrutinise the circumstances surrounding the awarding of the road maintenance project as authorities seek to establish whether there was any wrongdoing in the procurement process.