The IFP in Pretoria is calling for a full investigation to be launched into alleged nepotism and corruption by management of the Tshwane Metropolitan Council.

"It is of utmost importance that the Mayor answers to the allegations made against her and her employees. The South African public has the right to know," commented Mr Koos van der Merwe, IFP MP.

Likewise, the IFP in Pretoria requests a full report from the Metro Council regarding the waste of money on monthly legotlas that cost up to R300 000 each. "This is totally unacceptable since the municipality has its own up-market conference centre," said van der Merwe.

The Tshwane Municipality has received qualified audits for the past eight years and shocking mismanagement came to light. Assets of over R6 billion could not be verified, creditors were underestimated by R40 million and grants were paid out to the amount of R8 million to recipients who didn't exist.

Mr van der Merwe commented: "This alarming financial negligence is hardly surprising since the Tshwane Financial Officer is not a qualified chattered accountant. She is clearly not up to the task, but still receives a salary of more than one million rand a year. The council subsequently had to pay for private auditors to assist with the current financial crisis and again the taxpayer had to foot a massive R8,7 million bill."

Van der Merwe concluded: "Furthermore, the rate payers in Gauteng must be made aware that this municipality is using municipal coffers to line their own pockets. The IFP Pretoria will request a forensic audit by the Department of Finance as a matter of urgency."

 
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr Koos van der Merwe, 082 444 4944