(1)(a). The Audit firm was appointed on 28 June 2021 through an open tender process.
(b). The law firm appointed is Mazars Forensic Services (Pty) Ltd.
(c). The law firm was appointed by the Council of the NAC.
(d). An open tender process was followed where a tender advert was placed on 21 May 2021 in the National Treasury e-portal and NAC website, the tender closed on 03 June 2021. Tenders received were checked for administration compliance, thereafter functionality was evaluated by the Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) the functionality criteria comprised of the following criteria: Company Experience (20 points), Capacity (25 points), Methodology (30 points) and Track record/References (25 Points), bidders needed to score a minimum of 80 points in order to be evaluated further on price and preference. Bidders who scored the minimum threshold were evaluated for price and preference, then recommendations were made to the Bid Adjudication Committee (BAC), presentations by the bidders who scored the minimum threshold of 80 points were invited to make presentations. The final recommendations were done and recommended to council for approval.
(e). Terms of reference are as outlined:-
(f). The NAC informed the Department that the appointment was a fair and transparent process and so when they undertake the investigation, they are an independent firm that will report to council on its findings. Council will then share the findings with the Minister.
(2). The Forensic auditors are working independently from any internal influence by the NAC officials or Council.
(3). The public will get a full report.
(4). Action will be taken on those found to be guilty.