Covid cash scandal: Ex-lover duo owes R14 Million over tender fraud

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A scandal has emerged involving Katleho Mokonyane and her ex-lover and business partner Bonelela “Buzza” Mgudlwa, who must repay over R14 million tied to controversial Covid-19 tenders.

The Special Tribunal found their company unlawfully benefited from PPE contracts during the pandemic.

Katleho, daughter of ANC figure Nomvula Mokonyane, adds a significant political aspect to this troubling situation.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has expressed approval of two rulings from the Special Tribunal that annulled illegal contracts awarded by the Mpumalanga Department of Health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the SIU, these judgments reflect its commitment to investigating and rectifying corruption and improper procurement practices that emerged during the health crisis.

The contracts, valued at R1,080,000.00 for 60,000 surgical masks and R13,297,500.00 for 150,000 protective medical jumpsuits, were declared constitutionally invalid, unlawful, and void.

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence of criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.

— Special Investigating Unit (SIU) (@RSASIU) April 2, 2026

Tark Group (Pty) Ltd, formerly known as Tuwo Rhodesia, was found to have unlawfully benefited from contracts exceeding R14 million, according to SIU investigations.

Co-owners Katleho O’Hara Mokonyane and Bonelela Mgudlwa were held personally liable for these unlawful gains. The tribunal ruled for the disgorgement of profits and declared the contracts void.

Investigations by the SIU uncovered systemic violations of procurement laws, such as bypassing bid committees, deviating from transversal contracts, and appointing an unaccredited supplier without the required SAHPRA license.

SIU spokesperson Selby Makgotho announced that the Special Tribunal ruled against officials from the Mpumalanga Department of Health.

Public funds lost during COVID-19

“The Tribunal confirmed that the Department issued premature promissory letters of award, bypassed mandatory bid evaluation and adjudication committees, and accepted non-compliant bids.

“While the Department chose to abide by the application, its conduct was central to the irregularities. This judgment is a critical outcome of the SIU’s relentless efforts to recover public funds lost during the COVID-19 national state of disaster.

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“It sends a clear message that suppliers who fail to meet essential legal requirements have no entitlement to profit from the state, and the SIU will use its litigation powers to the fullest to ensure such funds are returned.

Makgotho emphasized the SIU’s commitment to safeguarding public funds, restoring integrity in procurement, and holding accountable those who illegally profit from state contracts.