Overview
- The Public Protector’s final report, issued on January 13, 2026, found no breach of the Executive Ethics Code by Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson.
- The EFF’s complaint accused him of improperly fast‑tracking overdue payments at the Independent Development Trust, but investigators concluded his role was limited to relaying a Presidency referral.
- The report cited National Treasury’s 30‑day payment rule and found no evidence of undue influence, favoritism, conflict of interest, or abuse of power.
- Claims that his office bribed journalists were dismissed for lack of evidence, and the complainant did not respond to an October 2025 draft report.
- Macpherson welcomed the finding, linked the complaint to efforts to hinder IDT reforms and the R800 million oxygen‑plant probe, and said he may pursue civil action against those who amplified the allegations.