Kritzinger and Kotze targeted in smear campaign
VANDERBIJLPARK. - “Nothing will stop us from reporting and fighting corruption. Not a fake news smear campaign on social media or even death threats”. This was the statement made by Vaalweekblad freelance journalist Craig Kotze, after he and Klippies Kritzinger (CEO of the Golden Chamber of Commerce) fell victim to an anonymous smear campaign on social media this week.
“I did not receive any money. I have never taken money from anyone. The persons spreading the fake news is doing this to shift the focus from their own wrong doings,” says Kritzinger.
Krizinger was accused of receiving R1 million and Kotze R500 000 from BXCSA (the Chinese company that was contracted for ELM’s smart meter project). Kotze also denied receiving this huge amount (although he was contracted by BCXSA several years before, which had nothing to do with the latest accusations).
These accusations and an Emfuleni Municipality bank statement (which have been deemed fake) have been circulating on social media. “We have a very good idea of who is behind this whole smear campaign. We have already asked ELM to investigate this matter,” says Kotze.
The advisor in the mayor’s office, was also cited as having received R2 million together with former acting mayor, and the municipal manager. The attempt to get an official response form ELM regarding the matter was unsuccessful.
