Despite the significant investment, these machines remain idle, highlighting a disturbing trend of maladministration and neglect within the Department of Military Veterans, says Carl Niehaus
On 10 July 2026, I submitted written parliamentary question NW3674 to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Angie Motshekga. The question sought detailed answers on several critical matters: the reasons for the continuing lack of effective and productive utilisation of 90 pothole repair machines (also known as rollers or compactors) procured in 2021 for the benefit of military veterans and service delivery, despite the large amount of public money expended on their purchase; whether the Minister had been informed of allegations that the machines were being surreptitiously and/or illegally rented out to third parties, with certain individuals within the Department of Military Veterans (DMV) enriching themselves; the steps taken to investigate such allegations, ensure accountability and institute consequence management; whether the failure to investigate constituted a dereliction of duty; and the practical steps implemented to support business initiatives for military veterans.
The Minister’s response is not merely inadequate — it is deeply disturbing and confirms a level of maladministration, waste and impunity that can no longer be tolerated in a country still grappling with the legacies of apartheid and the unfulfilled promises of liberation.
