The DA has submitted a formal complaint to the office of the Public Protector, calling for a full investigation into allegations of nepotism and conflicts of interest surrounding the recruitment process for a pavement construction contract at Levai Mbatha Clinic in Evaton.

The project came under scrutiny after allegations that people who benefited had strong ties with top ELM officials, with two workers of the project said to be related to councillor Sibongile Soxuza, who serves as the Speaker of the Emfuleni Local Municipality.

DA Emfuleni North Constituency Head Kingsol Chabalala MPL says, “The DA suspects potential conflicts of interest and acts of nepotism that may have compromised the fairness and integrity of the awarding and execution of this contract. Soxuza, as Speaker, occupies a senior leadership position with oversight over municipal governance and council decisions.”

Chabalala said the employment of Soxuza’s relatives on a municipally funded project creates a conflict of interest under Section 5(1) of the Municipal Systems Act, which prohibits councillors from benefiting themselves or family members.

“Furthermore, the involvement of the Speaker’s family members strongly suggests nepotism.”

DA has since requested the Public Protector to investigate whether Soxuza declared her family relationship with project employees and recused herself from any related decisions; review payroll and appointment records to confirm the roles and remuneration of Bushy and Katleho Masangane; and recommend disciplinary action.

Chabalala has said it is concerning that Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has not addressed their concerns regarding the handling of the Levai Mbatha pavement contract, despite their submission of a memorandum demanding an internal investigation.