Tshwane’s Deputy Mayor and MMC for Finance, Eugene Modise, has rejected allegations of corruption linked to water tanker contracts, while welcoming an ongoing investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

In a statement issued by his office following recent media reports, including a Sunday Times article published on March 15, Modise distanced himself from claims suggesting wrongdoing, describing them as unfounded and politically motivated.

“There have been no findings of corruption against me. Any attempt to associate me with wrongdoing is unfounded and rejected outright,” said Modise.

“I fully support the SIU investigation and believe it must be allowed to proceed without interference, in the interests of accountability and clean governance.”

The SIU probe, initiated at the request of the City Manager, is expected to investigate public expenditure related to water tanker procurement.

Modise stated that the unit, as a constitutionally recognised body, should be given space to conduct its work without external pressure.

The statement also addressed concerns around Modise’s past business interests.

He confirmed that he has resigned from all companies in which he previously held directorships, adding that this information is publicly available through the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission.

Clarifying the widely reported R777-million figure linked to water tanker spending, Modise said this amount reflects purchase orders recorded on the SAP system, which include cancelled, duplicated and unprocessed transactions.

“Verified payments total R621-million, while the actual expenditure for the 2024/25 financial year stands at R441-million,” said Modise.

Modise further noted that the contract in question was executed during the 2023/24 financial year under the previous DA-led administration, arguing that holding him accountable for those procurement decisions is misleading.

In response to public concern, Modise outlined several interventions aimed at strengthening oversight and reducing reliance on outsourced tanker services.

These include the installation of meters on hydrants to prevent unauthorised water extraction, the introduction of GPS tracking systems for tanker monitoring, and the redeployment of municipal drivers during service interruptions.

“These interventions are already yielding measurable results, with savings of approximately R12-million per month being realised,” said Modise.

He added that R15-million has been allocated in the adjustments budget to refurbish and expand the city’s own tanker fleet, with further investment planned for the 2026/27 financial year.

Modise reiterated his commitment to ethical governance and service delivery, urging residents to allow due process to take its course.

“We call on all parties to allow proper legal and investigative processes to run their course, rather than succumbing to trial by public opinion,” he said.

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