Acting Prasa CEO booted in the wake of salary hike allegations
Acting CEO of Prasa, Collins Letsoalo has been removed from his position, following allegations in media reports that he hiked his own salary by over 350%.
Despite holding a press briefing on Monday dismissing the allegations contained in a Sunday Times report, the department of transport wanted a full investigation into the claims.
The newspaper claimed that he demanded a salary increase from the pay package of R1.3 million to a R5.9 million pay package.
It also alleged that he fired acting group executive for human capital Bhekani Khumalo for refusing to increase his salary as well as demanded a chauffeur-driven car and a company cell phone with unlimited calls.
“I dispel the notion that I have increased my salary. I will never seek to get what I am not entitled to,” Letsoalo said on Monday during a special media briefing.
During the media briefing in Pretoria Letsoalo distributed a letter confirming his remuneration package at R5,986,140.07, and called the reports about his salary a “smear campaign” against him.
However, in subsequent meeting held late meeting on Monday, the Prasa board voted unanimously to dismiss Letsoalo, with immediate effect.
According to reports out of Prasa, Letsoalo flouted the group’s protocols, leaving the board with no choice but to terminate his temporary tenure. Prasa’s Remuneration Policy on acting positions provides for an increase not exceeding 12% of the package on the acting position.
Information about his dismissal and who will replace him is expected to follow.
Read: Acting Prasa CEO says he didn’t ask for R6 million pay package