The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will investigate allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, irregular expenditure and unlawful or improper loss of public funds at the Western Cape-based Theewaterskloof Local Municipality.
This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the unit to probe the municipality and recover any possible financial losses incurred.
“The SIU will investigate the procurement of, or contracting for, goods, works, services, or leases by or on behalf of the municipality for the supply, delivery and installation of 14 backup electricity generators for boreholes and water pump stations during the 2022/23 financial year.
“The investigation will cover boreholes and water pump stations in Grabouw, Greyton, Caledon, Villiersdorp, Botrivier, Genadendal, Tesselaarsdal and Riviersonderend.
“The SIU will also investigate payments made in respect of the generators, where such procurement and payments may not have been fair, competitive, transparent, equitable or cost-effective, or may have been contrary to applicable legislation, manuals, guidelines, practice notes, circulars or instructions issued by National Treasury or the relevant Provincial Treasury,” the unit stated.
Furthermore, the corruption-busting unit will also probe any improper or unlawful conduct by “officials or employees of the municipality, the service providers concerned, or any other person or entity, in relation to the allegations occurring between 1 October 2022 and 21 August 2026”.
“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.
“In terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act, 1996 (Act No. 74 of 1996), the SIU is empowered to investigate the allegations, institute civil proceedings in the Special Tribunal, and take steps to recover any financial losses suffered by the State,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
