SA president orders probe into Usaasa management

SA president orders probe into Usaasa managementJacob Zuma, the President of South Africa has ordered the Special Investigating Unit of SA to launch an investigation into the allegations of corruption in the Universal Service and Access Agency of SA (Usaasa).

The Special Investigating Unit will look into procurement of services in relation to the Rapid Deployment of Public Access Facilities Programme.  The Universal Service and Access Agency of SA offers technological access to areas that do not have access to such services.  The government has is aiming to offer broadband access to broadband in the country until the year 2020.

Zuma's spokesman Mac Maharaj said in a statement, "The SIU is further authorised to investigate the agency's funding, by way of a subsidy in the amount of R500 million, to a service provider for the construction and expansion of an electronic communications network for Emalahleni local municipality."

The spokesman also said that the investigation will focus on allegations of serious maladministration relating to Usaasa and its board.  The probe comes after allegations of corruption and maladministration against the company.  UDM leader Bantu Holomisa had asked the president to intervene in the matter and order an investigation.