The Department of Transport has launched an independent investigation into claims that it spent millions of rands on livestreaming services that often attracted only small online audiences.
Senior research director Esethu Hasane alleges the department spent up to R15 million over several procurement cycles, including R13.27 million across two financial years.
He said some livestreams attracted around 100 viewers on YouTube.
Auditor-General flagged procurement concerns
Hasane said he first raised concerns internally in May 2025 before later reporting the matter to several institutions, including the Auditor-General, National Treasury, the Presidency, the Public Protector and the Hawks.
According to Hasane, the Auditor-General found that seven livestreaming requests for quotation were each kept below the R1 million threshold that would require an open competitive tender.
The seven awards totalled R6.786 million.
Hasane said the Auditor-General classified at least R5.96 million of the expenditure as irregular under the Public Finance Management Act and recommended consequence management.
He argued that some of the spending could have been prevented had the department acted earlier on his internal reports.
Independent investigation now underway
The department said it takes the allegations seriously and confirmed that acting Director-General Mathabatha Mokonyama appointed law firm Bowmans to conduct an independent investigation.
Hasane said he has submitted his findings to the firm and believes total irregular expenditure could rise to R15 million once earlier procurement cycles are examined.
The department asked the public to allow the investigation to run its course before conclusions are drawn.
Victimisation claims disputed
Hasane has also alleged that he was victimised after raising concerns.
The department rejected those claims, saying related matters had been dismissed with costs in both the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court and the Public Service Co-ordinating Bargaining Council.
Hasane, however, cited an internal report that he says found misconduct linked to an anonymous complaint calling for his dismissal.
He stressed that no finding has been made against any service provider.
The forensic investigation remains underway, while the Hawks investigation and related court proceedings have not yet concluded.