Scandal-Hit IDT Boss Quits: Tebogo Malaka Resigns After Oxygen Tender Storm

Tebogo Malaka has resigned as chief executive officer of the Independent Development Trust (IDT), just five months after being placed on precautionary suspension at the state-owned entity.

Her departure follows a series of controversies linked to procurement irregularities and a high-profile bribery allegation.

PwC Probe Uncovered R836m Oxygen Tender Irregularities

Malaka was suspended in August 2025 after a PwC investigation flagged serious concerns around the IDT’s R836 million oxygen plant tender, a project intended to supply oxygen systems to 60 state hospitals across the country.

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According to the PwC report, Malaka and the IDT’s general manager for supply chain management, Molebedi Sisi, played a central role in approving the disputed contracts. The investigation recommended disciplinary action against the senior officials involved.

Bribery Allegation Deepens Pressure on Tebogo Malaka

Malaka’s leadership tenure was further overshadowed by allegations that she attempted to bribe Daily Maverick journalist Pieter-Louis Myburgh.

She was caught on camera allegedly trying to offer R60 000 in cash to halt an investigation into an IDT contract and one of her luxury properties in Waterfall, Gauteng. Following the allegations, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson laid criminal charges against Malaka and IDT spokesperson Phasha Makgolane.

IDT Confirms Resignation With No Exit Payout

The IDT confirmed on Wednesday that Malaka’s resignation will take effect on 31 January 2026 and that she will receive 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.

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Malaka’s appointment as CEO had previously drawn scrutiny after claims emerged that she was permanently appointed despite facing allegations of procurement irregularities linked to a R45 million lease agreement. She allegedly approved the deal without informing the IDT board.

Reports further allege that the lease was signed with Moepathutse Property Investments, a company believed to have political connections.

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