Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lesotho Times
Published on 2024-03-14 20:29:52
The Public Officers Defined Contribution Pension Fund (PODCPF) has been facing a series of crises and scandals, leading to the involvement of security agencies to address the issues. The fund has been embroiled in allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and attempting to enlist an unlicensed service provider to administer its assets. As a result, the fund has been restrained from appointing a new administrator.
Principal Officer of the PODCPF, ‘Mamotlohi Mochebelele, recently met with key figures from the Lesotho Defence Force and Finance and Development Planning to discuss security threats and information security within the fund. The fund has also reached out to the National Security Service (NSS) and Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) for assistance in investigating the issues.
The involvement of security agencies is crucial in probing leaks, misconduct by service providers, and ensuring compliance with regulations. However, the exact role of the security agencies and the scope of their investigations remain unclear. The fund has come under scrutiny for appointing unlicensed service providers, such as Fairsure, leading to concerns of vested interests and malpractice.
The Public Officers’ Defined Pensioners Association (PODCPA) has been adamant about investigating leaks and misconduct within the fund. Detractors of certain service providers have been using leaked information to discredit them and push for their removal. However, it is important to note that some allegations may be unfounded, as evidenced by false reports in the media.
BNP leader Machesetsa Mofomobe has called on the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO) to investigate the fund for alleged fraud and corruption. He has submitted a motion to the National Assembly for an ad hoc committee to delve into the issues at hand. Failure to address these malpractices could have dire consequences for the country’s financial stability.
The fund’s lack of transparency, accountability, and adherence to regulations have raised concerns among stakeholders. The involvement of security agencies and investigative bodies is crucial in uncovering the truth behind the allegations and ensuring the fund operates within legal parameters. Moving forward, it is imperative for all parties involved to cooperate and work towards restoring public trust in the PODCPF.
Read the original article on Lesotho Times
