Zuma’s office breaks its silence on the lease of police buildings

By Khanyisa Tabata
02 August 2011

The Presidency has released a statement to correct what it says are inaccurate reporting on the Public Protector’s report on buildings leased for use by the police.

The statement says it has been reported that President Jacob Zuma relieved Geoff Doidge of his duties as Public Works Minister and appointed Gwen Mahlangu-Nkabinde in his place for the sole purpose of getting her to approve the leases.

The Presidency statement says this is all based on a rumour that Roux Shabangu, owner of the buildings, is supposedly a friend of the President. It says the President barely knows Mr Shabangu.

And there is nothing suspicious about Doidge’s departure. The statement also says President Zuma will respond to the allegations of corruption.