Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Dirk Kotze and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Kabelo Moreeng.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mangaung will take decisive action by writing to the City Manager to request a full explanation of the authorisation of payments for incomplete municipal projects. The DA will also refer the matter to the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) and the Provincial Legislature for a thorough investigation, and open a criminal case with SAPS to determine whether fraud or corruption has occurred.
At the Mangaung Council meeting held on 30 October 2025, the Supply Chain Management (SCM) report for the quarter ending September 2025 revealed two principal payments that have raised serious concern.
According to the report, MJ Phulane Construction was paid R4,936,272.31 for erecting a fence at the Memorial Cemetery. At the same time, Veseal Trading (Pty) Ltd received R4,963,765.55 to put up a wall at the Botshabelo Cemetery.
Both projects remain unfinished, with contractors on-site confirming that they are still waiting on payments for materials required to complete the work. The DA has also learnt that worker intimidation by a so-called “construction mafia” has disrupted progress for the past two weeks.
Nevertheless, payments for the projects appear to have already been processed, raising serious concerns about financial oversight and the potential for corruption.
With ongoing developments in South African politics, including the Madlanga Commission, the parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee on Police Misconduct, and the Zondo Commission, one must ask: Who are the Vusimusi Cat Matlalas, KT Molefes, or Morgan Maumelas of the Mangaung Metro?
The DA believes the answer lies in the Supply Chain Management report, which continues to expose questionable payments and possible corruption under the ANC’s watch.
This is yet another example of how the ANC-led administration misleads both the Council and the public, putting self-interest before service delivery.
We will not rest until those responsible for this blatant misuse of public funds are held accountable.