SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration in Nelson Mandela Bay
Mayor says municipality will “give full support” to SIU investigators
In 2021 GroundUp reported on streetlights in Kariega, under Nelson Mandela Bay, that had been off for years despite complaints by residents. Archive photo: Thamsanqa Mbovane
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been given the green light by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate “allegations of serious maladministration” at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. The SIU will look into the alleged unlawful conduct by municipal employees, and recover financial losses connected to a dodgy contract to supply streetlights.
The proclamation signed by Ramaphosa covers allegations of unlawful conduct which took place between 1 November 2020 and 12 July 2024.
The SIU said, in a 15 July statement, that it will investigate the procurement and contracting of LED streetlights and flood lighting, and relevant payments which were not “fair, competitive, transparent, equitable or cost-effective”. It would also investigate irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditure by the municipality, and unlawful or improper conduct by municipal officials or service providers.
“In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic (sic) recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses,” the SIU said. It would refer criminal evidence it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the SIU stated.
In response to the SIU’s investigation, the municipality’s Executive Mayor Gary van Niekerk on Monday told GroundUp: “My office was not approached regarding this matter but will give our full support when the SIU deems it necessary to approach us for assistance. We are systematically addressing corruption in collaboration with the relevant law enforcement apparatus at our disposal.”
Last year, GroundUp reported on an SIU report into an irregular R26.4-million tender for toilets and standpipes for informal settlements in the municipality. The Gqeberha High Court dismissed the municipality’s application to set aside the SIU’s report.
In 2021, we also reported on complaints by residents in Kariega and Gqeberha who said they lived in fear because many street lights in their areas had not been working for years. The Mayco member for electricity and energy at the time, Luxolo Namette, said that that 15,000 bulbs have been bought to restore street lights.
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Letters
Dear Editor
As an engaged member of our community and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the non-rehiring of several experienced lifeguards.
Despite our persistent efforts and the paper trail we’ve meticulously maintained, we find ourselves in a frustrating situation. The lifeguards, who have diligently served our community since 2018 (with one even starting as far back as 1994), remain in limbo. Their commitment, skill, and unwavering dedication are beyond question.
However, the lack of feedback from Mr. Vasu and MMC Mcebisi Kamana is disheartening. We expected transparency and accountability, yet it seems that everyone is deflecting responsibility. As advocates for our youth and the safety of our residents and visitors, we implore you to take decisive action.
Our community deserves answers, and our lifeguards deserve the opportunity to continue their vital service.
Let us stand together for a better tomorrow, investing in our community’s future by reinstating these dedicated individuals into permanent positions. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. We trust that you will champion fairness, recognise merit, and prioritise our community’s wellbeing.
Dear Editor
Over the past 2 years, most of the street lights in Kariega have been off during the night. Whether it's due to bulbs that have not been replaced or lights not being switched on, it's a dangerous situation and makes it easy for criminals to hijack, burgle and rob people. No one is safe to go out after dark.
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