Allegations of wasteful spending and governance failures at iLembe District Municipality have drawn scrutiny from KZN Finance MEC Francois Rodgers.

The concerns follow reports presented to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta).

The allegations, shared with KZN Treasury on June 2, were first reported by the Courier last month (iLembe under fire over offices, tankers and laptops, May 15). Central to the claims are reports that the municipality continued making monthly rental payments for three years for a building not in use.

“As the district champion for iLembe, I take these allegations very seriously,” said Rodgers.

“Where there is evidence of wrongdoing, decisive action must be taken against those responsible, in line with applicable legislation.”

Rodgers said the municipality had already taken steps to address the claims, including engaging oversight bodies and committing to appoint an independent external investigator.

“KZN Treasury will work closely with Cogta and other relevant stakeholders to ensure this matter is addressed in a manner that restores public confidence and strengthens governance at municipal level,” he said.

Meanwhile, municipal spokesperson Sipho Mkhize confirmed that iLembe had submitted its response to the portfolio committee within the stipulated timeframe.

Mkhize said the municipality had not been formally informed of any outcomes arising from the committee’s processes, nor had it received communication regarding any escalation of the matter.

While confirming that the allegations stem from the Courier‘s May 15 report, Mkhize said Rodgers had not formally engaged the municipality on the issues raised publicly.

“The district is confident it is undertaking the appropriate processes to thoroughly investigate the allegations and remains committed to taking decisive action should any wrongdoing be established,” he said.