Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has appointed Dr Nicolas Crisp as Acting Director-General in the Department until further notice.
In a letter to Dr Crisp, the Minister says Crisp will perform all the functions of the accounting officer for the department in terms of the Public Finance Management Act. This includes compliance with supply chain management.
This comes amid reports that the DG, Sandile Buthelezi faces suspension from the department in connection with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report into the Digital Vibes matter.
Unpacking the Mkhize, SIU, Digital Vibes saga
Zweli Mkhize resigned as Health Minister early last month amid allegations that he may have improperly benefited from the Digital Vibes contract.
Digital Vibes was awarded a R150 million COVID-19 media campaign contract with the Department of Health.
Earlier, the SIU said Mkhize may have acted criminally in the appointment of a company linked to his associates to provide communication services to the department.
The SIU has told the Standing Committee on Public Accounts that Mkhize failed to act according to the constitution and the law and that his actions led to the department incurring irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure.
The lead investigator in the case, Johnny Le Roux says the SIU has referred seven matters to the Health Department for disciplinary action against officials.
Zweli Mkhize could soon find himself in the dock if SIU has its way
