![vmexsa logo [front]](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%206490%201012'%3E%3C/svg%3E)
ActionSA has criticized Gauteng MEC Jacob Mamabolo for the Emfuleni Local Municipality’s blatant disregard for the Gauteng Provincial Legislature.
According to the party, the MEC has allowed a cover-up of the R16 million fleet procurement scandal in the official response, indicating that the provincial government permits the troubled municipality to act without accountability.
ActionSA Gauteng caucus leader Funzi Ngobeni has stated that the municipality is embroiled in a scandal involving the payment for 17 vehicles, of which only 6 have been received, with one vehicle now missing.
“Emfuleni’s municipal manager, April Ntuli, avoided accountability following the submission of legislature question COGTA 044, which sought answers regarding consequence management, criminal investigations, and the recovery of misappropriated public funds.
“The municipal manager responded to six questions with a standardized statement, indicating that the matter is still under the council’s internal process and an official update will follow upon its conclusion,” he stated.
Ngobeni pointed out that the CoGTA MEC’s approval of the document to be sent to the GPL shows a major lack of oversight, especially since the municipality is using “internal processes” to avoid starting a criminal case.
He added, “The opening of a criminal docket for R16 million in missing public funds is mandated by law, specifically under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, and is not an internal discretionary issue.
ActionSA demands action
“By allowing this delay, the MEC is effectively endorsing the municipality’s violation of the law, affording implicated officials ample time to conceal evidence.”
In response to this farce, Ngobeni said they have submitted urgent follow-up questions to the MEC, demanding real action rather than bureaucratic shielding.
“I have formally requested the MEC to provide immediate directives under Section 105 of the Municipal Systems Act regarding a transparent account of the missing R16 million.
ALSO READ | Gauteng executive council overhaul endorsed by ANC task team
“Will the MEC use oversight powers to compel the municipal manager to disclose if a formal criminal case has been opened with the SAPS or the Hawks, as mandated by PRECCA.
“Given Emfuleni’s severe financial distress, what specific deadlines will the MEC impose to conclude this “internal process,” and what interim interventions is CoGTA enforcing to urgently recover the misappropriated funds,” he asked.
Creative | Nerd | Media Junky | Scribe |
Bitten by a media bug in the late 90’s – As a bona-fide Journo, he boast extensive expertise in print, online and broadcast medium and continues to strive to be the best version of himself.
