Weeks after that report, Eskom has now responded, saying it is aware of the claims of corruption and fraud linked to that contract. It said the contract in question covered the period of three months from July 2022 to September 2022 and mainly focused on the critical power stations, strategic corporate sites, and the transmission network.
"Eskom would like to reassure South Africans that the placement of the Fidelity Services security contract was in line with Eskom's procurement procedure and the National Treasury directives for emergency procurement of services," said the company in a statement on Sunday.It said its management had received legitimate information about a potentially serious security risk to its operations and assets.
"Operationally, across Eskom sites, there was daily and monthly monitoring of activities, and the payment of the invoices over the 3 months was in line with the contracted services. A total of approximately R250 million, including VAT, was spent for the duration of the contract," read the statement. The utility added that given the seriousness of the corruption allegations, it will work with the relevant authorities on any investigation. In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust. For 14 free days, you can have access to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, top opinions and a range of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today. Thereafter you will be billed R75 per month.