The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is horrified following confirmation that the brutal murder of a 40-year-old woman in Emfuleni was related to her whistleblowing activities.

A video of the horrific murder of Martha Mani Rantsofu sent shockwaves through social media when it was circulated at the weekend. Many speculated that her assassination was likely linked to her work at the Emfuleni Municipality in the finance department. However, the municipality through its spokesperson denied that she was a whistleblower and called for patience while police investigate.

It has subsequently come to light that Rantsofu had uncovered a corrupt scheme where workers were wiping off household and company municipal account balances in exchange for bribes. In some cases, business accounts were overbilled so the culprits could solicit more bribes from the business owners.

Rantsofu is also reported to have noted that some vehicles were missing from a newly acquired fleet. She had also opened a case of corruption with the Hawks against her colleagues who were implicated in the scheme she uncovered.

It is clear from the video footage that the individuals siphoning off money from the municipality are willing and ready to kill anyone who stands in their way. COSATU conveys its deepest condolences to her family, particularly her daughter who is in matric. We wish them strength at this difficult time.

The Federation calls on law enforcement agencies to do everything in their power to find the individuals responsible for the heinous murder of Rantsofu, arrest, prosecute and sentence them to the maximum period permissible. Their assets should also be seized and sold to recover the monies stolen from the municipality.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Mmamoloko Kubayi, released the Protected Disclosures Bill for public comment last week. The Bill tightens protections for workers from victimisation at the workplace, as well as protections for other members of the public, who blow the whistle against corruption, state capture and other criminal activities. It is a real tragedy it could not protect Rantsofu.  

Issued by COSATU  

Zanele Sabela (COSATU Spokesperson)

Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639

Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za