The North West parliament has suspended agriculture department head Paul Magothle indefinitely, for allegedly awarding himself a grant of over R1-million for a project at his farm, the SABC reported on Tuesday.

Provincial agriculture MEC Jan Serfontein was also allegedly suspected of being implicated in the matter, the broadcaster reported.

Opposition parties welcomed the decision to suspend Magothle, describing it as a breakthrough in the fight against fraud and corruption.

The United Christian Democratic Party reportedly said Surfontein should also be investigated and drastic action taken against him.

Sapa