Sibanyoni denies wrongdoing in Putco contract matter
Businessman Joe Sibanyoni has defended his involvement in the Putco bus company matter.
Joe Sibanyoni, a prominent taxi businessman, has denied any wrongdoing in the Putco bus company matter, maintaining that his actions were limited to seeking accountability and monitoring remedial measures outlined in the Public Protector's report. The taxi magnate appeared before the Madlanga Commission on Monday and is expected to return on Wednesday for further testimony.
Sibanyoni's involvement pertained to the original 136-week contract awarded to Putco in March 1997, which has been continuously extended as an "evergreen contract." He testified that the Public Protector's findings indicated maladministration and improper conduct by the Gauteng Roads and Transport Department, not by himself or those who engaged with the matter in good faith.
Additionally, Sibanyoni addressed concerns surrounding Gubis85 Solutions, another company implicated in allegations of receiving significant security contracts from the City of Tshwane. He explained that a payment of approximately R1 million from Gubis85 for purchasing a vehicle for himself should be understood within the context of his long-standing personal relationship with the company's owner, Calvin Mahlangu.
Sibanyoni emphasized that his relationship with Mahlangu is rooted in their personal friendship and that the financial aspect is inconsequential to him.
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