Staff Reporter.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a proclamation to authorise the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to probe allegations of maladministration in the Moqhaka Local Municipality in the Free State.
The SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago says the proclamation “authorises the SIU to investigate procuring and contracting armed physical security services in the municipality”.
Kganyago says the investigation will also cover the alleged misconduct of municipal officials and the service provider.
“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 1 January 2019 and 12 April 2024. The date of the publication of the Proclamation or before 1 January 2019 and after those dates,” explains Kganyago.
Kganyago added that it would, as an additional measure, “identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses”.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
“The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration,” Kganyago concluded.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.