Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises has welcomed the announcement of the termination of the South African Airways (SAA) and Takatso Consortium deal.
The collapse of the deal was initially announced by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan on Wednesday evening and confirmed by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a post Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
Committee chairperson, Khaya Magaxa, said the committee remains committed to fostering transparency in the aviation sector.
“We welcome the decision by Cabinet to terminate the Takatso Consortium deal. This allows us to re-evaluate and refine the processes we have been undertaking to ensure the best outcomes for our South African Airways. We remain committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the sector.
“We remain committed to promoting transparency and accountability in the sector, as we continue with the investigation, as instructed by the Office of the Speaker. Our aim is to uncover the truth and ensure that the best interests of the public are protected,” Magaxa said.
A statement by the committee said the termination “aligns with the committee's objective of safeguarding the public interest” and will give the airline space to evaluate other options.
“The committee acknowledges the importance of a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of any proposed partnership or agreement involving government as a shareholder in State-owned companies. This termination allows for further scrutiny and exploration of alternative options that will ensure the sustainability and growth of South African Airways.
“The committee remains dedicated to promoting good governance, transparency and accountability within the public enterprises sector. The committee will closely monitor the developments following the termination of the Takatso deal, and will actively engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes for the sector and the public at large,” the committee said. – SAnews.gov.za
