Vhembe MM suspended

THE Special Investigating Unit (SIU) dispatched by president Jacob Zuma to investigate irregularities and maladministration in the Vhembe District Municipality suspended the municipal manager (MM), Masala Makumule with immediate effect last Wednesday.

The investigation started two weeks ago after allegations were made that salaries for councillors and senior managers had been increased illegally. DA Limpopo leader, Jacques Smalle expressed his satisfaction with the suspension. “It is alleged that the municipal manager increased municipal grades from levels 4 to 5 without the council’s approval,” he said, adding that the municipality had received a disclaimer opinion for the second time in a row. A disclaimer is issued when the Auditor-General (AG) could not form an opinion, and consequently refuses to present an opinion on the financial statements.

Smalle further said that during Makumule’s tenure, R139 million could not be accounted for due to the municipality’s failure to comply with the legislative requirements when procuring goods and services. “Another R4,2 million was spent fruitlessly by hiring consultants to prepare the financial statements,” Smalle further said.

Premier Stanley Mathabatha welcomed the investigation. He said he had taken note of the AG’s audit reports, which showed the regression of Limpopo municipalities.

Immediately after his inauguration Mathabatha met with all mayors and indicated he would like to see their financial status and audit reports improving dramatically.

Municipal spokesperson Moss Shivambu said Makumule was suspended due to issues regarding the increment of municipal grades.

The investigation continues.