Premier pockets thousands in travel claims

2012-02-14 07:47

Johannesburg - Limpopo Premier Cassel Mathale prefers to use his own car on official trips, which is costing taxpayers thousands of rands a month, The Star reported on Tuesday.

The newspaper has reportedly seen a document from Mathale's office detailing how he cashed in on travel claims, despite having two state vehicles.

In September 2011, Mathale was paid R446 000, including his R75 000 monthly salary.

Mathale's office has bought two cars during the two years he has been premier. A BMW 750i worth R1m was purchased in April 2009, and a BMW X5 that cost the state R821 000 followed in June 2011.

According to The Star Mathale reportedly prefers using his own vehicle so he can claim travel expenses. His spokesperson Mashadi Mathosa defended Mathale's use of his personal cars.

"The ministerial handbook gives him the prerogative to use his private vehicle and claim," she was quoted as saying.

Limpopo faced a potential shortfall of R2bn at the end of the last financial year. Cabinet put the province under administration last year after it emerged that Limpopo was bankrupt and could not pay civil servants such as teachers and nurses.

- SAPA