The KZN Premier’s office is investigating claims that at least eight permanent positions at Enterprise iLembe were filled through irregular processes.

Investigators requested extensive recruitment and appointment records in February following allegations made by a whistle-blower against the publicly funded economic development agency linked to the iLembe Municipality.

The filling of six managerial positions, along with the appointments of an investment officer and executive personal assistant, is under investigation.

Acting appointments in the human resources department and for the company secretary role are also under scrutiny after allegations they were made without formal advertisement or competitive processes.

Enterprise iLembe spokesperson Thobile Nxumalo confirmed the investigation.

“The agency has submitted all documentation and information requested by the Office of the Premier and continues to co-operate fully with the process,” said Nxumalo.

The agency also dismissed allegations of improper hiring processes relating to the acting appointments.
Nxumalo said internal assessments were conducted and employees’ CVs evaluated based on qualifications, experience and suitability.

She added that the acting company secretary position exceeded the six-month limit because of an internal restructuring and strategic review process, with the extension authorised in line with the agency’s acting allowance policy.

Meanwhile, a draft internal audit report into HR and payroll processes at Enterprise iLembe raised several critical findings.

Among them was the appointment of a project manager despite the successful candidate allegedly not meeting the minimum qualification requirement for the post.

Auditors found the advertised position required an NQF Level 8 qualification, while the appointed candidate allegedly held only a BTech qualification at NQF Level 7.

The report also highlighted missing recruitment records, including interview scoring sheets, qualification verification documents and reference checks for several positions.

Nxumalo maintained proper recruitment steps had been followed.

“We are not aware of anyone who is not qualified, as our recruitment processes comply with policies and procedures,” she said.

Nxumalo also rejected claims that recruitment records linked to certain appointments could not be located, saying auditors had been provided with all relevant documentation.