DA calls for urgent intervention as LDPWRI loses millions on hijacked properties

SEKHUKHUNE – According to the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Limpopo, the Limpopo Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure (LDPWRI) is in crisis, with millions of rand in losses due to poor contract management and maladministration of assets.

Jacques Smalle, DA Limpopo Spokesperson on Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA), the department has seemingly failed to effectively manage properties under its control and collect revenue due, resulting in losses exceeding R100 million.

A staggering 165 state properties, valued at R144.542 million, have been illegally invaded, highlighting the department’s failure to maintain properties and act against illegal occupiers.

“We are concerned about the department’s failure to maintain properties, act against illegal occupiers, and manage leases, which has led to the illegal invasion of 165 state properties valued at R144.542 million. The department’s failure to manage leases has led to the illegal invasion of state properties, and an under-capacitated internal legal unit has exacerbated the situation, allowing illegal occupants and tenants to take advantage,” said Smalle.

He added that lack of lease agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with other departments has resulted in an estimated loss of R126.676 million in uncollected revenue that was billed to tenants occupying departmental houses and properties.

“The LDPWRI senior officials have also failed to ensure efficient and effective management of its assets. The PFMA requires that the accounting officer must ensure that the department institutes effective, efficient and transparent systems in place,” Smalle said.

He said the party will call for immediate action by legal services, in conjunction with the state attorney, to expedite eviction notices on all 165 properties.

“The accounting officer must investigate and take disciplinary action against officials responsible for the losses. The people of Limpopo deserve better management of their assets. Immediate action is needed to address these issues and ensure accountability,” said Smalle.