The drama surrounding driver’s licence renewal in South Africa is one thing akin to a very unhealthy cleaning soap opera. The newest flip within the story sees the Auditor-General (AG) asserting quite a few tender irregularities. This regards the appointment of a brand new card-printing provider in 2024. The firm in query is French agency Idemia Identity and Security. The similar firm that’s been embroiled in comparable irregularities with the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA). Besides dealing with all driver’s licence renewal in South Africa, it will additionally oversee new digital Driver’s Licence Card Accounts (DLCAs).
Now, based on the AG, bid standards for driver’s licence renewal in South Africa wasn’t utilized constantly to all bidders, studies TopAuto. In response to the AG’s findings, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy confirmed no cash has but been spent on the rollout of driver’s licence renewal in South Africa. However, ought to the division forge forward, it will be classed as irregular expenditure on account of, “inconsistencies found in the tender process,” says the AG.
DRIVER’S LICENCE RENEWAL IN SOUTH AFRICA
As messy because it sounds, the Automobile Association (AA) has applauded the division’s motion. It says it represents a vital step in the direction of transparency and accountability within the procurement course of. Something the AA advocated for. However, now the minister is looking for a declaratory order from the High Court on easy methods to proceed. Because to disband the tender altogether would necessitate cancellation penalties to Idemia. Therefore, the division’s fingers are successfully tied till the High Court gives a advice.
Meanwhile, the nation’s sole card-printing machine should forge on. The similar one which’s already many years outdated, susceptible to breakdowns, and has been the reason for quite a few backlogs. The division says it’s going to have a look at interim options within the meantime. These embrace enhanced upkeep efforts on the lone printer to take care of its working capability. Another is issuance of momentary licences to these motorists affected by the driving force’s licence renewal backlog in South Africa.
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