Free State Public Works HOD Denies Allegations of Protecting Official Accused of R17 Million Misconduct

Posted on January 30, 2025
by Yashmika Dukaran


Free State Head of Department (HOD) for Public Works and Infrastructure, Mosa Masimene, has refuted allegations that she shielded Khaya Radebe, the Director of Supply Chain Management, from misconduct charges related to R17 million.

The controversy erupted after the Premier’s office issued a statement claiming Masimene had instructed the State Attorney to withdraw charges against Radebe without justification, despite legal advice from both the department’s legal team and the State Attorney.

Masimene, who is at odds with Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, confirmed that she received a letter from the premier demanding an explanation for Radebe’s reinstatement.

Radebe had previously faced charges under former HOD Ernest Mohlahlo. However, Masimene asserted that his reinstatement was based on an arbitration ruling, though he was placed in a position that did not formally exist within the department.

“I consulted our internal legal unit and asked whether an investigation had been conducted and whether there was anything that could compromise the process,” Masimene explained. “They confirmed that nothing would be compromised. Given that the department was already paying him, I made the decision to reinstate him as requested.”

The allegations have deepened tensions within the provincial government, raising concerns about accountability and governance in the department.