The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) in the Free State welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decisive action in authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate serious allegations of maladministration within the Masilonyana Local Municipality. This crucial step demonstrates a firm commitment to transparency, accountability, and the promotion of good governance within our local government structures.

Proclamation 182 of 2024 directs the SIU to investigate two tenders awarded by the municipality, namely the refurbishment of the Brandfort Water Treatment Works and Raw Water Pump Stations, and the upgrading of Brandfort Sports Centre Phase II. The investigation will examine whether municipal officials, service providers, or other parties unduly benefited themselves or others, resulting in unauthorized, irregular, or wasteful expenditure, or financial losses for the municipality.

This Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 May 2020 and 13 September 2024, as well as any related activities before or after these dates that are pertinent to the investigation or involve the same individuals, entities, or contracts.

SAMWU is particularly concerned about the negative impact of maladministration and financial mismanagement on municipal workers and the communities they serve. The lack of proper financial oversight and accountability has resulted in unauthorised, irregular, or wasteful expenditure, ultimately, an adverse impact on service delivery and worker conditions. These financial irregularities not only threaten the financial sustainability of municipalities but also jeopardise the livelihoods of workers and the quality of essential services provided to local communities.

We call on the newly elected MEC to follow the President’s example by ensuring that the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) adheres to constitutional prescripts in implementing corrective measures to achieve a long-term solution to this crisis. The Auditor-General’s report highlights that municipalities in the Free State have shown a total collapse of internal controls, and political leadership has once again failed to implement lasting solutions to the challenges these municipalities face. The ongoing inaction by COGTA Free State to address these issues over the years is troubling, suggesting complicity in the collapse of governance within the province.

By authorising the SIU to investigate these allegations, President Ramaphosa is taking a strong stand against corruption and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. SAMWU believes that this investigation will restore public trust in the Masilonyana Municipality and ensure that municipal resources are managed effectively and ethically. We urge the SIU to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation and to take swift action against any individuals or entities involved in unethical practices. Our workers and the communities they serve deserve to have their concerns addressed, and to see justice served.

In the same breath, we welcome the recent High Court judgment in Bloemfontein ordering the Mafube Local Municipality to pay R37.7 million, which it defrauded from its employees. These moves demonstrate a commitment to holding those responsible for wrongdoing accountable. SAMWU reaffirms its dedication to supporting efforts that promote good governance, transparency, and accountability. We stand ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure that this investigation yields positive outcomes and contributes to the betterment of municipal services and the welfare of our workers.

Issued by SAMWU Free State


Thabang Tseuoa, Provincial Secretary, (082 620 9160)

or

Sandla Mahlathi, Deputy Provincial Secretary, (072 658 0725)