MLM councillors alleged to benefiting from tender corruption

JANE FURSE

A source within the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality (MLM)’s council has alleged nepotism, misconduct and ‘tenders for pals’ within the MLM council.

A councillor at the MLM, has alleged that the municipality has been allegedly giving out tenders to close associates of opposition parties’ councillors.

Part of the alleged scheme sees the councilors from the opposition, get kickbacks, as tenders are awarded to their friends and families.

In return, the councillors will vote with the ruling party in taking council decisions that allegedly benefits and favours the ruling party.

The financial favours and kickbacks have allegedly muted opposition parties at this municipality, with most of the councilors agreeing to every motion and colluding with ANC councilors in passing council decisions.

“In a nutshell, there is no more opposition at the MLM, their focus is kickbacks and opportunities to enrich themselves at the expense of the people. They have neglected the people and are working with the ANC to secure big bags of money,” alleged the source.

Thomas Mashabela, the MLM spokesperson said rumours and allegations will not distract the council’s collective system. He said the council remains committed to championing the development of communities.

“All projects are awarded based on demonstrated expertise, experience, and merit, in compliance with the Municipality’s Supply Chain Management (SCM) policies and relevant frameworks such as the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).”

He said councillors and public servants with evidence of misconduct by their colleagues have a responsibility to report such wrongdoing to the Council’s ethics committee or law enforcement agencies.