LIMPOPO – The Greater Giyani Municipality has confirmed the dismissal of two officials from its finance department following an investigation into corruption-related misconduct.

Although the municipality has withheld detailed information regarding the reasons for their dismissal, it is understood that the matter is linked to the case involving the municipality’s former chief financial officer (CFO), who resigned last year before the municipal council could proceed with plans to dismiss him.

The auction that raised questions

The former CFO’s case was related to a municipal auction held between January and February 2025.

It is alleged that the municipality only received the proceeds from the auction more than six months after the event had concluded, raising serious questions about the whereabouts of the money during that period and why it had not been deposited into the municipality’s accounts immediately after the auction.

CFO resigned day before facing council

Instead of appearing before the council to account for the delay and answer questions surrounding the matter, the former CFO allegedly submitted his resignation a day before he was scheduled to face the council.

His resignation effectively brought an end to the disciplinary process that had been initiated against him.

Further irregularities uncovered

However, investigations into the auction continued after his departure. According to information available, the municipality uncovered additional irregularities linked to the same auction.

It is alleged that a TLB that was not listed as part of the auction was sold during the event. Documents reviewed by the municipality reportedly reveal a paper trail linking the two dismissed officials to the alleged transaction.

Municipality confirms dismissals

In a media statement, municipal spokesperson Steve Mavunda confirmed the dismissals, saying the decision followed a comprehensive investigation into allegations of misconduct.

“The Greater Giyani Municipality hereby confirms that two officials have been dismissed following a thorough investigation into alleged misconduct,” said Mavunda.

He added that dismissal letters were served on the two employees on Monday, June 15.

Identities withheld pending appeals

Mavunda said the municipality would not disclose the identities of the dismissed officials at this stage because they still have the right to appeal the outcome of the disciplinary process.

He said the municipality did not want to infringe on the rights of the employees by making their identities public before all internal processes have been concluded.

“In respect of their right to appeal, we cannot disclose further details regarding the charges,” Mavunda said.

Zero-tolerance approach

He emphasised that the municipality maintains a zero-tolerance approach to misconduct and corruption, adding that disciplinary action would continue to be taken against any employee found guilty of violating municipal policies or engaging in unethical conduct.