Polokwane – Great North Transport (GNT), the embattled Limpopo government-owned bus company, has suspended its top executives following allegations of financial mismanagement, including the failure to pay workers’ medical aid and pension contributions for six months—despite deducting these amounts from their salaries.
Executives Placed on Special Leave
The company’s board of directors announced the suspension of CEO Dr. Dr. Matata Mokoele, CFO, and the COO after a meeting held in Polokwane in May 2025. The three executives were placed on a three-month paid special leave pending investigations into the company’s financial troubles.
A spokesperson confirmed the suspensions, stating, “The board decided to put these executives on special leave so that an investigation can determine the root causes of the company’s challenges.”
Workers Left in Financial Crisis
The scandal has left hundreds of employees without medical aid and pension benefits, despite monthly deductions from their salaries. Investigations revealed that GNT allegedly owes millions in unpaid contributions to pension fund administrators and medical aid schemes.
Even more alarming, a forensic report found that the company failed to pay out pensions to retired workers over the past decade, with some passing away before receiving their dues.
Acting Leadership Appointed Amid Ongoing Probe
To stabilize operations, the board has appointed an interim CEO and interim CFO. A reputable external firm will be brought in to investigate the financial mismanagement.
“We must follow PFMA regulations to ensure a credible investigation that benefits the company,” the spokesperson added.
Long-Standing Financial Woes
GNT has faced years of financial instability, leading to repeated failures in meeting statutory obligations. The latest suspensions highlight deepening governance concerns within the state-owned enterprise.
As the investigation unfolds, affected workers and retirees await justice, while the company struggles to restore credibility.
More updates to follow as the story develops.
