Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality’s recent Mayoral Cup tournament came under the spotlight on Tuesday (January 27) when municipal management, led by Mayor Mduduzi Myeza, appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs in the National Assembly.

The committee was engaging municipalities from KwaZulu-Natal on the 2023/24 local government audit outcomes when concerns were raised about the R500,000 budget allocated to the Mayoral Cup.

How the R500,000 was used in the tournament

Committee chairperson Dr Zweli Mkhize questioned Mayor Myeza on how the half-a-million-rand budget was spent. In response, the mayor confirmed that R500,000 had been allocated for the tournament, adding that the municipality’s overall budget stands at approximately R800 million. He explained that the funds were used to pay teams and purchase soccer and netball kits for teams across all Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality wards. Dr Mkhize indicated that the explanation was unsatisfactory.

However, committee member Hlengiwe Mkhaliphi raised concerns that some councillors were allegedly unaware of the Mayoral Cup and its budget. Responding to this, Myeza stated that the budget had been duly approved by councillors. He further dismissed claims that Ward 11’s councillor had no knowledge of the tournament, noting that the Mayoral Cup competitions began in Ward 11.

Infrastructure priorities questioned

The committee also raised concerns regarding the municipality’s spending priorities, particularly in light of the Auditor-General’s report, which indicated that the municipality has limited funds for infrastructure repair and maintenance. Members questioned why sporting events appeared to be prioritised over essential service delivery needs.

Additional allegations were aired, including claims that the municipality paid approximately R100,000 per artist during the Mayoral Cup final. Mkhaliphi urged the committee to closely monitor Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality, expressing concern that there may be broader governance issues within the municipality.

Mkhize concluded by instructing the municipality to submit a detailed report to the relevant Members of the Executive Council (MECs) to provide clarity on the Mayoral Cup expenditure and other related matters.

Also read: Municipality honours top matric achievers of 2025

Widespread debate in Estcourt and on social media

The session has since sparked widespread debate in Estcourt, with video footage of the municipal leadership’s appearance circulating on social media. Community members have expressed mixed reactions; however. A key concern emerging from the public discourse is the perceived prioritisation of entertainment over service delivery.

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