“The department has noted allegations of tender irregularities and corruption in Mamusa Local Municipality, as raised by the DA, and implores the Council of Mamusa to investigate these allegations to ascertain whether processes were followed,” COGTA spokesperson Ms. Dineo Thapelo stated.

Vryburg, August 26, 2024 – The North West Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has called on the Mamusa Local Municipality to launch a thorough investigation into allegations of tender irregularities and corruption. This follows accusations raised by the Democratic Alliance (DA) regarding an alleged tender fraud amounting to R831,100 within the municipality.

The controversy centers around claims that the municipality paid significantly inflated prices for Mecer Xpress Executive tablets. The DA alleges that the tablets, which typically retail for between R3,000 and R4,000, were purchased at an exorbitant price of R36,875 each—a markup of over 900%. Additionally, concerns have been raised about potential conflicts of interest involving the municipality’s Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Vincent Masilo, who also serves as the Acting Municipal Manager.

In a statement, DA North West Provincial Spokesperson: Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, CJ Steyl MPL., expressed deep concern over the allegations, emphasizing the importance of accountability. “Such actions, if proven true, undermine the integrity of the legislative process and the trust of the public. It is crucial that we ascertain the truth and ensure accountability,” Steyl said.

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The DA has called for immediate intervention from COGTA to restore public confidence in the administration of the Mamusa Local Municipality. In response, following a media enquiry by The Vryburg Independent Post Team (The VIP Team), COGTA spokesperson Ms. Dineo Thapelo acknowledged the allegations, to The VIP Team, and emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency. “The department has noted allegations of tender irregularities and corruption in Mamusa Local Municipality, as raised by the DA, and implores the Council of Mamusa to investigate these allegations to ascertain whether processes were followed,” Thapelo stated.

The allegations come at a time when Mamusa is grappling with significant challenges, including a substantial Eskom debt and ongoing service delivery issues. The DA has also raised concerns about illegal appointments and the legitimacy of the current council’s leadership, which they claim has been compromised by internal political conflicts.

Given the seriousness of the accusations, there have been calls for the formation of a task team to oversee the investigation and ensure that any findings lead to appropriate consequences. The DA has drawn parallels to the Kagisano-Molopo laptop scandal, urging COGTA to handle the Mamusa case with the same level of scrutiny and determination.

As the situation develops, the public and political stakeholders alike are closely monitoring the actions of the Mamusa Municipal Council and COGTA. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the next steps for the municipality and in restoring the community’s trust in its leadership.

The Vryburg Independent Post will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

-The VIP Team

-DA NW

-NW COGTA

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