Recently dismissed Public Enterprises Evaluation and Privatization Agency (PEEPA) chief executive officer Obakeng Moumakwa is reportedly challenging his dismissal from the parastatal.
Moumakwa, who was sacked in October this year by then Minister of Presidential Affairs Nonofho Molefhi has reportedly approached the District Labour Office citing among others, unfair dismissal.
He declined to comment referring The Sunday Standard to his former employer PEEPA.
The former CEO is also said to be challenging the initial suspension that led to his dismissal as well as calling for the setting aside of the investigation report into his conduct as he says he was not part of it.
Moumakwa is also challenging the application of the provision of PEEPA Conditions of Service which he says do not provide for CEO disciplinary process. The ex CEO reportedly claims the Minister denied him the opportunity to make his case after he requested to be given more time to recover from illness.
PEEPA also stands accused of withholding Moumakwa’s terminal benefits. He was dismissed in October after disciplinary proceedings by the PEEPA Board following allegations of corporate misconduct.
“I have been furnished with a report of the investigative process and a Record and Report of the Disciplinary Enquiry,” Minister Molefhi wrote. “Both Reports paint a picture of corporate governance failures by you and a recommendation that appropriate disciplinary action be taken against you.”
Central to the reasons for dismissal is the company Range Rover that the former CEO crashed while on suspension.
“The Board in its judgement clearly indicates that as a result of its decision to suspend you from duty you were instructed not to take the motor vehicle …but you chose to treat the instruction with disdain. The Board further made clear that you indicated to it that it had no authority to suspend the vehicle benefits from you and this was premised on your opinion that the suspension was wrong, a position which was incorrect,” Molefhi wrote.
In addition, the Minister also cited what he said was an acrimonious relationship Moumakwa had with the Board which the Minister said was not conducive to a functional productive relationship and invariably untenable.
Molefhi confirmed the former CEO did not get the opportunity to show cause why he should not be dismissed. “You replied with a (7) day sick note and a letter requesting more time for this purpose.” Molefhi cited the charges the former CEO faced before terminating the contract.
“I therefore wish to communicate my decision terminating your contract as Chief Executive Officer of PEEPA with immediate effect. Speaking to this publication this Friday, December 13 Moumakwa refused to comment on the appeal, directing our enquiries to PEEPA. The two parties are expected to appear at the District Labour Office this coming week for mediation. Ishmael Joseph was appointed Acting CEO following Moumakwa’s dismissal.
