Gauteng Liquor And Gambling Boards Corruption Inquiry Promises Positive Change

The Gauteng Economic Development MEC, Lebogang Maile, has confirmed that the inquiry into alleged corruption within the province’s Liquor and Gambling Boards is progressing steadily.

The 15-member committee, tasked with investigating claims of bribery and prolonged licensing delays, is expected to present its findings within the next three to four months.

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Maile expressed confidence in the committee’s work and emphasized its potential to drive meaningful reform.

“I believe the Committee of Inquiry will not be deemed wasteful expenditure and it will yield positive results,” he said. According to Maile, his department is working tirelessly to address the longstanding bottlenecks in the license application process.

Allegations Spark Urgent Action

The inquiry was launched after serious concerns were raised by the Gauteng Legislature’s Portfolio Committee and its chairperson. Maile said these concerns could not be ignored.

“There were allegations that were brought to our attention through the committee. The portfolio committee in the legislature and the chair brought them to my attention. We looked at them and we realised that these are serious,” he explained.

The scope of the investigation includes claims of officials accepting bribes and systemic inefficiencies that have resulted in long delays for business owners seeking liquor and gambling licenses.

Senior Legal Counsel Leading the Charge

The MEC emphasized the importance of appointing experienced leadership to oversee the inquiry. “We thought we couldn’t fold our arms about these allegations; we have to appoint an experienced person in the form of a senior councilor,” he said.

Public engagement has also played a role in the process, with individuals reaching out to report their concerns. The inquiry represents a critical step toward restoring public trust and ensuring that licensing procedures are fair, transparent, and efficient.

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