Pam Yako, Water Affairs DG, has been suspended awaiting the outcome of an investigation into suspected financial irregularities within the department.

Water Affairs Minister Buyelwa Sonjica said that “no charges have been levelled against Ms. Yako or any official of the department and, until informed otherwise by the outcome of the investigation, the director-general remains innocent.” The investigation into the department’s finances was decided upon “following allegations of financial irregularities and information alleging maladministration and mismanagement”, according to a statement issued by the ministry.

Despite earlier assurances by President Jacob Zuma when he told top public servants their jobs would be safe, the transition to the new administration appears to have exposed tensions between ministers and directors-general in several departments. Yako is the fourth top public servant to be suspended in as many weeks.

Ms Yako was appointed Director-General of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry on 1 March 2008.

Source: Caiphus Kgosana, IOL, 22 Jul 2009

Tags: africa, governance