The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has officially launched an investigation into eThekwini Municipality’s Water and Sanitation (EWS) unit concerning the provision of communal ablution blocks to informal settlements. This inquiry, authorized by a proclamation from President Cyril Ramaphosa, will scrutinize activities dating back to January 1, 2015.
Allegations of Maladministration and Misconduct
The investigation focuses on allegations of maladministration and improper conduct by municipal officials related to public sanitation facilities. These facilities are essential for improving sanitation access in eThekwini’s informal settlements, where there is a significant need for basic hygiene infrastructure.
The SIU will examine whether public funds were mismanaged, leading to financial losses for the state. Specific allegations under investigation include:
- Improper or unlawful conduct by municipal officials or employees
- Unlawful appropriation or misuse of public funds or property
- Irregular or unauthorized transactions involving state resources
- Intentional or negligent loss of public funds or damage to state property
Focus on In Situ Upgrade-Infrastructure Sanitation Project
Central to the investigation is the In Situ Upgrade-Infrastructure Sanitation project, which aims to enhance water and sanitation services to human settlements and schools. During the 2019/2020 financial year alone, R326,968,718.17 (approximately R327 million) was spent on the project. Concerns have since emerged regarding budget approvals and the legitimacy of expenditures.
Project Y6525, which was tasked with constructing communal ablution blocks, is under particular scrutiny. Funds were allocated to service providers and consultants for onsite construction, but there have been complaints from subcontractors about delayed payments for completed work.
Investigations revealed that many of the completed works fell outside the agreed project scope. These irregularities have led to heightened scrutiny and allegations of deliberate or negligent financial mismanagement.
DA Calls for Accountability
Following Ramaphosa’s proclamation, Democratic Alliance (DA) Executive Committee (Exco) member Andre Beetge expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing issues within the water and sanitation department. Beetge suggested placing the department under administration to enforce accountability.
“This department is problematic… We hope heads roll,” Beetge said, echoing the frustration of many within the council.
Budget Discrepancies and Unauthorised Expenditures
In June 2022, eThekwini’s Executive Committee transferred funds from the 2021/2022 capital budget to cover unauthorized expenditures linked to Project Y6525. This move highlighted discrepancies in the municipality’s financial management practices.
Councillors who attended the meeting acknowledged the risks associated with the unauthorized expenditure and discussed its potential impact. Despite these discussions, concerns remain about the adequacy of financial oversight within the municipality.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The SIU’s investigation will determine whether the municipality suffered any financial losses and whether those losses can be recovered. The findings may also result in criminal charges or disciplinary action against individuals found responsible for mismanagement.
As of publication, the eThekwini Municipality has not commented on the matter.
The investigation reflects growing pressure on municipal officials to improve transparency and accountability in public financial management. Residents of eThekwini, particularly those living in informal settlements, are eager for answers about how public funds intended for essential services were handled.
With millions of rands potentially at stake, the SIU’s findings could have significant implications for governance within the eThekwini Municipality’s Water and Sanitation unit.
In other news – WATCH: Dr Malinga shows off his wealth with back-to-back car purchases
South African music legend Dr Malinga has been making waves on social media with his recent lavish car purchases, adding two new luxury vehicles to his collection in less than five days. The popular musician, known for his energetic performances and hit songs, recently surprised his wife with a Mercedes-Benz and later bought another high-end car worth millions of rand for himself.
In the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, Dr. Malinga shared a heartfelt video of himself gifting his wife a sleek Mercedes-Benz. The surprise was not just a Valentine’s gesture but also a way to celebrate the couple’s anniversary. Read More