Bitumen World denies paying kickbacks

Bitumen World has categorically denied claims that it paid bribes to senior government officials, following allegations made on social media by former parliamentary committee chairperson Dr Energy Mutodi.

Mutodi had alleged on X (formerly Twitter) that Treasury Secretary George Guvamatanga demanded US$200,000 from Bitumen World for every US$2 million in payments approved for the company's road contracts.

In response, Bitumen World CEO Andre Zietsman stated that the company had never been asked for any illicit payments by Guvamatanga or any other official. "Bitumen World (Private) Limited would like to dissociate itself from the post made by Dr Energy Mutodi @energymutodi to the extent that the contents thereof relate to it. We categorically state that we have not received any solicitations from Mr George Guvamatanga," Zietsman said.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and to working with the government on road infrastructure projects. "Bitumen World remains firmly committed to supporting the government's infrastructure development agenda. We continue to work with relevant ministries and agencies to deliver quality, sustainable projects that strengthen the national road network and contribute to long-term economic growth," he added.

Following the controversy, Mutodi was removed from his position as chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance and Investment Promotion. He later withdrew his claims, citing a lack of evidence to substantiate them.

The incident has sparked widespread public debate on transparency and corruption in government contracting.