Dean Macpherson lays charge against IDT CEO Tebogo Mokwena -

Macpherson Takes a Stand: Criminal Charges Against Suspended IDT CEO Over Bribery Scandal

In a decisive move to uphold accountability and press freedom, South African Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has formally laid criminal charges against Independent Development Trust (IDT) CEO Tebogo Malaka and spokesperson Phasha Makgolane. The legal action comes amid allegations that they attempted to bribe an investigative journalist to suppress a critical report.

The charges were filed on August 7, 2025, at the Cape Town Central Police Station. Minister Macpherson personally initiated the criminal case following a video exposing an alleged R 60,000 bribe offered to Daily Maverick reporter Pieter‑Louis Myburgh in exchange for withholding an exposé—an act he described as “sickening” and emblematic of impunity in public service.

Integrity Over Indifference

Addressing the media, Macpherson emphasized his personal responsibility in confronting corruption head-on. “If I didn’t take ownership of this issue, I’d be ignoring how angry South Africans feel,” he declared, affirming that accountability cannot be delegated but must be upheld by leadership.

Threat to Democratic Foundations

Macpherson framed the alleged bribery not only as a criminal offense but as an affront to democratic integrity. He asserted that attempting to silence a journalist not only flouts ethical standards but threatens the public’s trust and the institutional function of the state. “This is an attack on our democracy and the free press,” he warned.

Widening the Investigation

The Minister has mobilized broader probes to ensure systemic accountability. The South African Police Service (SAPS) was urged to investigate:

The R 60,000 bribe targeting the reporter.
Potential attempts to influence other journalists or political figures.
Organized social media campaigns, including use of automated bot profiles.
Complicit commentary from public figures and media operatives.

Macpherson also called on the newly appointed IDT board to launch a comprehensive audit of all contracts awarded during Malaka’s tenure. Specifically, he requested a forensic tracing of fund flows and rigorous scrutiny to uncover additional instances of misconduct, urging swift consequence management where warranted.

Background: A Troubled Tenure

Tebogo Malaka’s leadership at the IDT has been overshadowed by a major oxygen plant contract valued at R 836 million, intended to equip 60 hospitals. A recent forensic investigation by PwC revealed serious procurement irregularities, including contracts awarded to uncertified companies lacking operational capacity.

Moreover, further controversy surrounds payments amounting to R 33 million made to a company linked to Malaka’s family—raising concerns about conflicts of interest and governance failures.

Political and Public Resistance

Macpherson revealed that his efforts to restore governance at the IDT had been met with fierce resistance, including orchestrated disinformation campaigns. These included fake voice notes, fabricated news articles, falsified call logs, and political defamation. He accused political parties like ActionSA and the EFF of enabling these smear attempts and questioned their motives.

A Turning Point for Governance

By stepping forward personally, Macpherson sent a clear message that tolerance for corruption at any level will not be permitted. “I serve the public, and corruption won’t be tolerated,” he affirmed, underscoring that releasing forensic reports, suspensions, and now criminal charges, are all steps toward building a capable, trustworthy state.

Conclusion: Reaffirming Democratic Principles

Minister Macpherson’s decisive action marks a critical moment in South Africa’s fight against corruption and efforts to safeguard press freedom. Facing mounting evidence of misconduct, he chose transparency and accountability over complacency. This episode illustrates two enduring truths: that governance hinges on ethical leadership, and that the public’s right to truth must never be compromised—no matter the cost.

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External Links: https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/minister-dean-macpherson-lays-criminal-charges-against-suspended-idt-ceo-and