The Democratic Alliance (DA) says the Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Mzi Khumalo, has once again failed to disclose monies spent by Emfuleni Local Municipality on labour disputes.

According to Kingsol Chabalala,  a DA MPL and the party’s political head in Emfuleni North, this money meant for service delivery could have been used to ensure Emfuleni residents have access to regular refuse removal and tarred roads.

Emfuleni is facing 20 labour disputes due to alleged unfair labour practices.

In a written response to questions tabled by the DA in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL), MEC Khumalo said the law firms are paid following the tariffs applicable as provided for in the Service Level Agreement.

Chabalala says failure to disclose the amount of money paid to law firms raises suspicion and is concerning because this is public money, and there is a need for transparency and accountability.

Emfuleni is currently paying the following law firms for labour disputes:

• Raphela Attorneys
• Leepile Attorneys
• Madlopha and Thenga Attorneys
• Lindi Khumalo Attorneys
• Sithole Attorneys
• Rasegoete Attorneys

Chabalala says service delivery has collapsed in Emfuleni, and its residents have the right to know how every cent being spent.

“The DA demands that MEC Khumalo provide the exact amount of money paid to each law firm for employee labour disputes. He must also implement adequate measures to ensure lawful labour practices,” Chabalala said.