Gautrain: 'Play open cards'

'CORRUPTION THRIVES WITHOUT TRANSPARENCY'

- Brian Sokutu

As the contract of the Bombela Concession Company for the Gautrain ends next March, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) has called for absolute transparency with the tender process, possible extension of the Gautrain routes and the appointment of a new operator.

With the Gauteng government plans in full swing to find a new service provider, the provincial executive council has granted the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) approval to advertise for a new delivery partner for the Gautrain.

Underscoring the importance of absolute transparency, Outa CEO Wayne Duvenage said corruption thrived "when there is a lack of transparency".

"And we've had our fair share of corruption within the ANC-led Gauteng government.

"The public requires the best possible costs of these contracts, without compromising on the quality of services.

"For this to happen, excellent governance is required," said Duvenage.