Civic groups are demanding action after a Cogta investigation into the KwaDukuza municipality allegedly implicated senior officials and councillors.

The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (Docrra) and the KwaDukuza Residents Forum (KDRF) are calling for access to findings which can legally be made public and for officials allegedly implicated to face consequences.

The report stemming from a Section 106 investigation by the KZN Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) was presented to council during an in-committee session last week. The investigation followed formal complaints submitted to MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi in November, alleging maladministration, abuse of municipal assets and negligence.

“These complaints were raised after months of frustration over how the municipality has been run and how it engages with residents,” said Docrra chairperson, Deon Viljoen.

Cogta met with representatives from Docrra and KDRF in February, before launching the investigation in March.

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“It is our understanding that the investigation report confirms our concerns and implicates several senior officials and councillors in alleged wrongdoing,” Viljoen said.

“Given the seriousness of these allegations, decisive action is now required. Suspensions are necessary to ensure that further investigations can proceed without interference or intimidation.”

The Courier spoke to several councillors following last week’s council meeting. While they were unable to disclose details due to the in-committee nature of the discussion, some indicated that decisions on the investigation are expected to be made in January.

At the time of print, no response had been received from either the municipality or Cogta.

Viljoen said the Cogta investigation, together with earlier audit findings by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa, pointed to serious failures in municipal oversight.

“These reports show that maladministration and corruption have been allowed to take root over time. No stone must be left unturned,” he said.

“We remain ready to work with honest public servants to address the serious challenges facing the KwaDukuza community.”

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