By Thabo Mosia
On Friday, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) announced that President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed Proclamation 185 of 2024, granting the SIU authority to probe allegations of serious maladministration concerning 24 tenders at the Dawid Kruiper Local Municipality in Upington, Northern Cape. This investigation is part of a broader effort to address corruption and maladministration within municipal structures.
The tenders under investigation cover a wide range of services and contracts, including the appointment of external security services, construction of roads and sports fields, acquisition of loggers for pipeline monitoring, and the electrification of 1,000 houses. These contracts span from 2010 to as recently as 2020. The scope of the investigation will look into any irregularities, wasteful expenditure, and potential fraud related to these tenders, which may have resulted in financial losses for both the municipality and the state.
The investigation comes after concerns were raised about potential misuse of funds, particularly in relation to key infrastructure projects like the construction of internal streets and the repair of CBD roads. The SIU’s mandate includes not only identifying improper conduct but also recovering financial losses through civil litigation, if necessary.
This proclamation aligns with President Ramaphosa’s ongoing campaign to combat corruption at all levels of government. The SIU has been active in various municipalities across South Africa, with recent investigations focusing on maladministration, fraud, and corruption, aiming to improve governance and accountability.
The Dawid Kruiper Municipality has faced scrutiny for its procurement processes over the years, and this investigation could have significant implications for local governance and transparency. In recent months, similar proclamations were issued for other municipalities facing similar allegations, highlighting the president’s commitment to rooting out corruption in local government structures.
In addition to the Dawid Kruiper investigation, the SIU has been tasked with investigating similar issues in other regions, as the South African government seeks to restore public trust and ensure that public resources are used effectively for community development.
The SIU’s investigations have played a crucial role in exposing and addressing systemic issues within municipalities, with several cases leading to disciplinary actions and criminal prosecutions. This particular investigation will focus not only on the tenders but also on any unlawful conduct by municipal officials, service providers, or other entities involved in these contracts.
As the investigation unfolds, further details will emerge, but the SIU’s work in Dawid Kruiper Local Municipality will undoubtedly serve as a significant step toward improving accountability and governance in the Northern Cape and beyond.
Download Here:
Central News Weekly Edition 073 | Download the latest weekly edition| Top Story: “R180,000 in Prizes at Edgar Legoale Festive Soccer Tournament 2024”
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate