THE GAAL SCANDAL: HOW A PROVINCE'S AIRPORT WAS STRIPPED BARE

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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Limpopo is reeling from a devastating corruption scandal that has crippled its airport and strangled its economy, amidst deadly floods that have claimed over 10 lives.

The Gateway Airports Authority Limited (GAAL) is under fire for decommissioning and donating Polokwane International Airport's Instrument Landing System (ILS), a R30 million asset purchased in 2005, without proper procedures. This move has crippled the airport's operations, threatening Limpopo's economy, which was poised to attract R170 billion in investments.

The ANC's stronghold in Limpopo, where they secured a 74% victory in the last elections, is now under scrutiny. The ILS was fully functional until 2024 but was written off at a book value of R1.5 million. GAAL's CEO, Mokgadi Matli, has refused to answer questions about the scandal, sparking outrage among Limpopo residents.

Premier Phophi Ramathuba condemned the mismanagement, stating, "If we give you a job and you fail to do it, then you are not worth it".

The public demands immediate action: suspension of CEO Mokgadi Matli, publication of technical reports, and return of the ILS or full replacement funded by GAAL.

Criminal charges against executives for theft, fraud, and breach of fiduciary duty are a moral imperative. The Azanian's investigation reveals that the ILS was decommissioned without a technical report or assessment, and the donation was made without Treasury approval or parliamentary oversight.

GAAL's actions have raised concerns about political favoritism, with some alleging the ILS was diverted to a DA-led province, Cape Town. The DA has called for GAAL's privatization, citing incompetence and mismanagement. As Limpopo struggles to recover from the floods, the GAAL scandal has exacerbated the province's woes.

The people of Limpopo deserve better. It's time for GAAL to take responsibility and prioritize the province's aviation infrastructure. The Azanian will continue to shine a light on this scandal and demand action.