ANC statement on the release of the forensic report regarding Phillip Dexter

2 April 2009

The ANC has learnt that the Provincial Government of Mpumalanga has released the outcomes of the investigation into allegations of financial impropriety by the Chairperson of the Board of the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA), Mr Phillip Dexter.

Based on the report, it is clear that the conduct of Mr Dexter is not consistent with the expectation of a person appointed to the position of the Chairperson of the Board which according to King Report 2 and 3 is charged, overall, with the responsibility to uphold good governance, accountability and sound management. This is meant to ensure that public and private entities are run on the basis of integrity, honesty and professionalism. This is also meant to ensure that in the instance of MEGA, the Chairperson of the Board has the responsibility to ensure that taxpayers' money is used prudently, productively and in the manner that benefits the public.

In terms of the commission's report, it is clear that Mr Dexter defeated the purpose of good governance and was self-serving at the expense of the trust bestowed on him by the Government of Mpumalanga. This is characteristic of an individual that has lost a sense of responsibility and accountability. What is more disturbing is that Mr Dexter is incorrigible as evidenced by his accusation of a political witch-hunt directed at him by the Provincial Government at the time the government said it was to conduct an investigation. This is the same Dexter that exercised moral judgement on the issue of corruption in the ANC whilst portraying himself clean. The same "Mr Clean" who claimed that there was maladministration in MEGA could not institute an investigation into the allegations or prefer charges against those implicated. This in our view, is a dereliction of fudiciary duties on his part. While under investigation, "Mr Clean" continued to play clean by accusing the ANC of not having scruples and corrupt when commenting on the issue of Minister Cwele's wife that has not been tested in court.

Moreover, his offer to resign prior to the investigation can only be interpreted as an attempt to avoid accountability and cover-up his wrongdoings.

The ANC calls upon the Mpumalanga Provincial Government to make public the report of the investigation in the interest of transparency and promotion of good governance.

Issued by:
Jessie Duarte
National Spokesperson
African National Congress

For more information and general enquiries:
Ishmael Mnisi 082 333 5550
Brian Sokutu 071 671 6919