Tebogo Malaka, the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Independent Development Trust (IDT), has resigned, five months after her suspension from the state-owned entity.
Malaka was placed on precautionary suspension in August 2025 following a PwC investigation that uncovered irregularities in the IDT’s R836 million oxygen plant tender.
The project involved supplying systems to 60 state hospital facilities nationwide.
According to the PwC report, Malaka and the IDT’s general manager of supply chain management, Molebedi Sisi, were central to approving the disputed contracts.
The investigation recommended disciplinary action against the senior officials involved.
IDT CEO Tebogo Malaka bribery scandal
Malaka’s tenure was further marred by a bribery controversy.
She was caught on camera allegedly attempting to offer R60 000 in cash to Daily Maverick journalist Pieter-Louis Myburgh.
The alleged payment was intended to halt an investigation into an IDT contract and one of Malaka’s luxury properties in Waterfall, Gauteng.
ALSO READ: Bribery claims against acting high court judge investigated
Following the allegations, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson laid criminal charges against Malaka and IDT spokesperson Phasha Makgolane.
The IDT confirmed Malaka’s resignation on Wednesday, stating it would take effect from 31 January 2026, with no exit compensation.
“The board has accepted the resignation and confirms that Mr Sfiso Nsibande, seconded from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), will continue to serve as acting chief executive officer to ensure organisational stability and continuity,” the IDT said in a statement.
Malaka’s appointment as CEO had previously drawn scrutiny after allegations emerged that she was permanently appointed despite facing accusations of procurement irregularities related to a R45 million lease agreement.
The suspended CEO allegedly approved the deal without notifying the IDT board.
Reports claim she signed the lease with Moepathutse Property Investments, a company said to have political connections.
NOW READ: Public Works terminates Matlala-linked lease agreement
About the Author
