MQA manager faces investigation for misconduct and offensive behaviour

In a dramatic unfolding within the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), Finance Manager Myan Govender has become the focal point of an internal investigation spurred by multiple allegations of unprofessional conduct. This follows a grievance hearing by the organisation's human resources division, igniting concerns about governance and ethical standards within the MQA.

Among the most concerning allegations was an incident in February 2018 when Govender reportedly swore at an Auditor-General representative during an official audit. Sources revealed that the conflict began when auditor Ahmed Khan requested payment records but was met with aggressive verbal abuse from Govender, who allegedly used profanities and insulted the then Chief Financial Officer (CFO) by calling her “dumb” and “stupid”.

The episode was described by the Auditor-General’s office as “very serious,” suggesting a significant breach of professional decorum that could jeopardise the integrity of oversight functions within the organisation. While the CFO at the time publicly apologised to the auditors for the incident, Govender faced no immediate repercussions, allowing him to maintain his position.

The incident has triggered a slew of grievances stretching back a decade, showcasing a troubling pattern of behaviour that further underscored a culture of impunity within the MQA's finance division. In 2012, Govender was accused of breaching confidentiality by improperly disclosing details concerning a colleague's unsuccessful job application. This matter was quietly dropped when the affected colleague departed from the organisation, yet it marked the beginning of a trail of accusations that many claim indicated a sustained lack of respect for professional boundaries.

According to documents seen by the Daily News, more recently, in July 2024, Senior HR Manager Yvette Sharp alleged that Govender publicly undermined her credibility during a pension fund presentation, labelling her comments “untruthful”. Also, Finance Administrator Thembi Norman has lodged a grievance against Govender, claiming a lack of integrity and instances of disrespect and unprofessional conduct.

A source within the MQA, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, said alarming allegations extend beyond mere verbal outbursts; Govender has reportedly made sexist remarks towards female colleagues, including a particularly crude expression about relationships.

"Notably, despite numerous recommendations for him to attend sensitivity training, Govender has brazenly claimed to have bypassed such directives, highlighting a dismissive attitude towards established protocols," said the source. In addition, while Govender was alleged to only hold a matric certificate, his reported salary exceeds R1.1 million, raising eyebrows about financial ethics within the organisation. "As Finance Manager, he is charged with managing payments for suppliers and service providers—a role that inherently demands integrity," said the source.

However, information obtained by the Daily News within the MQA suggests an opulent lifestyle that includes ownership of luxury vehicles such as a Mercedes-Benz SLK and a Toyota Fortuner, alongside extravagant overseas vacations that seemingly defy his official earnings. The source further alleged that his trips to Dubai have included female employees, further blurring the lines between his professional responsibilities and personal excursions.

"As the MQA grapples with these serious allegations, Govender remained in his position while the internal process to appoint an investigator proceeds. The outcome of this investigation will likely carry significant implications, not only for Govender but for the organisation's credibility in maintaining a culture of accountability and professionalism," said the source.

Questions were sent to the MQA for Govender and the organisation to comment. Amanda Masilo, the MQA's manager for customer service and communication, responded: "We have just noted an email below, sent late in the afternoon yesterday. Unfortunately, we could not respond to the questions as per your request. We have, however, forwarded your e-mail to the Human Resources Senior Manager as the questions involve a staff member. As soon as the HR Senior Manager responds to all the questions, the responses will be forwarded to you." These questions were sent two weeks ago, and a response has not been received by the time of publication

DAILY NEWS