Mayor promises accountability as senior officials implicated for financial misconduct

An extensive investigation report on alleged financial misconduct implicating several of Umdoni Municipality senior officials was brought forward at last Friday’s council meeting.

The investigation was launched after the suspension of the municipal manager, Dr Vuyiwe Tsako.

It has resulted in serious findings which requires further action to be taken against those individuals implicated in careless actions.

“The appointed investigators looked into the issues of the alleged employment of 60 employees which was not budgeted for in the 2020/2021 fiscal year, as well as the irregular payment of unauthorised allowances to certain staff members, plus the failure to comply with supply chain management regulations when procuring goods and services relating to the Covid-19 pandemic,” explained Sphelele Cele, Umdoni communications manager.

“With regards to dealing decisively with this matter, the municipality will unapologetically and unreservedly institute disciplinary action against these individuals.”

The municipality is also expected to open a case with Saps and the special investigative unit.

“A certain ‘irregularly benefiting’ service provider will als o be reported to these law enforcement entities for the law to take its rightful course,” added Ms Cele.

An internal forensic investigation will also be put in motion on all municipal finances.

Mayor Sibongile Khathi asked the public to remain calm and tolerant during this investigation period and assures that all service delivery operations will continue as expected.

“When I assumed duty as mayor of Umdoni, I promised the people of our municipality that we will be an accountable council that strictly adheres to transparency and honour,” she said.

“It would be contradictory of me if this matter is swept under the carpet and it’s therefore my responsibility that we restore honour and ensure transparency, efficiency and effectiveness.”

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