A new, luxury R1-million Mercedes-Benz S500 with a special seat for short people is waiting at a Gauteng car dealer for its new owner — Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, Beeld reported on Friday.
The newspaper was told confidentially the vehicle would probably be delivered as soon as the health minister returned from the 16th International Aids Conference in Toronto, Canada.
The Department of Health’s deputy director of ministerial affairs, Victor Khanyile, apparently ordered the car (a demonstration model) for the minister earlier this week.
The Mercedes, which has a 5,5-litre V8 petrol engine, retails at R895 000.
Informed sources said the minister had requested additional items costing R40 000, including electronically adjustable seats.
Tshabalala-Msimang apparently also asked for an infrared camera in the car’s bonnet that can be activated at night to show a view of a road beyond the reach of the headlights.
She apparently requested financing for the car. Beeld‘s source said the invoice was in Tshabalala-Msimang’s name.
Cabinet ministers receive a car allowance with which they can buy a private vehicle.
The car may not be bought as part of a state contract or tender and if the person receives a big discount, it has to be declared.
Department of Health spokesperson Charity Bhengu said the minister had not bought a new car recently. ”I also don’t know if she’s in the process of buying a vehicle.” — Sapa