Note to editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Thulani Mbana.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Metsimaholo Local Municipality condemns the reported instances of alleged corruption within the municipality and the subsequent lack of action by the council to address these issues, specifically involving an EFF councillor.
According to the Auditor General’s report for the 2021/2022 financial year (note 42), it was discovered that an EFF councillor in Metsimaholo has been engaging in business with the municipality. Upon learning of this, the former DA Executive Mayor promptly reported the issue to the council and instructed the Speaker to initiate an investigation in line with Schedule 7 of the Municipal Structures Act as amended. Additionally, the DA Mayor filed a corruption case with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks).
However, the council, with the majority support from other political parties including the EFF, downplayed the matter. Despite full awareness of the report, current AIC Executive Mayor Jack Malindi appointed the implicated councillor as an MMC, allowing them to serve in his MAYCO.
In response, the DA submitted questions to the Speaker regarding the progress of the investigation. Under DA pressure, the Speaker eventually appointed councillors to a council-approved sub-committee, mandating it to report back within 30 days.
Nearly a year has passed with no action taken. On 24 July 2024, the DA once again queried the Speaker on the failure to implement the resolution. These questions are set to be discussed in the next ordinary council meeting.
The DA will continue to pursue justice by following up with law enforcement to ensure they fulfil their duties. We will also escalate this issue to the MEC CoGTA in the Free State Provincial Legislature, urging action following the law. All individuals implicated in corruption must be held accountable.