Bloom back but not impressed

27 November 2009 - 02:00
By Kingdom Mabuza

GAUTENG Premier Nomvula Mokonyana told DA leader Jack Bloom he was no champion at exposing corruption and should be principled and truthful in his criticism of the ruling party.

Bloom, who returned to the legislature this week after a serving a five-day suspension, accused the ANC of talking "as if they are a new government taking over from a previous one run by another party".

Bloom was not impressed with Mokonyane's declaration in her opening speech that acts of corruption, negligence and maladministration would be dealt with.

"After 15 years of ANC rule, why did she still need to say this? Obviously it has not been dealt with."

He said he was disappointed that a settlement had been reached with Sibusiso Buthelezi, former head of public transport, roads and works, to pay him a year's salary of R1million.

Buthelezi allegedly awarded contracts worth R500 million to companies linked to friends and relatives.