The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) has placed its Chief Operations Officer, Sobantu Tilayi, on precautionary suspension pending the outcome of an internal investigation into allegations of financial mismanagement.
Samsa said in a statement this week that Tilayi had been suspended with effect from 7 November.
“This decision follows an extensive review by Samsa’s executive management and the board, as part of Samsa’s commitment to upholding governance and financial accountability within the organisation,” the safety authority said.
“The precautionary suspension is a procedural measure that allows Samsa to conduct a fair and impartial investigation into allegations of financial mismanagement. The suspension does not imply any presumption of wrongdoing. Rather, it is intended to ensure that the investigation can proceed in a transparent manner, free from potential influence or disruption.”
The safety authority said the investigation would focus on compliance with financial management protocols, under the Public Finance Management Act.
“Samsa is committed to managing public resources responsibly and expects all employees to adhere to the highest standards of integrity, particularly regarding financial stewardship and regulatory compliance,” it said.
Samsa Acting CEO, Mbalenhle Golding, said the authority was dedicated to transparency and accountability.
“Samsa takes its responsibility to the South African public very seriously. We are committed to operating in a transparent, efficient, and fiscally responsible manner. As such, we have initiated this precautionary suspension to ensure an unbiased and thorough investigation,” said Golding.
Acting COO, Boetse Ramahlo, will manage Tilayi’s duties to maintain uninterrupted service delivery and operational stability during the suspension period.
“Samsa assures all stakeholders, partners, and the public that the organisation’s operations will continue as usual and that the focus on safety and marine environmental stewardship in South Africa’s maritime sector remains steadfast. Further updates will be provided upon the conclusion of the investigation,” said the safety authority.
