Cllr Geoff Makhubo has reaffirmed the City’s commitment to transparency and accountability relating to procurement and expenditure on Covid-19 related items.

The Executive Mayor’s assertion comes in light of widespread allegations of corruption and malfeasance associated with the procurement of Covid-19 personal protective equipment (PPE) in the country.

Cllr Makhubo explains that the metro he leads has commissioned an internal audit of Covid-19 procurement and expenditure, which has unearthed incidents of non-compliance and possible illegal activity. These are currently under investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the City’s Group Forensic and Investigative Service (GFIS).

“We are eagerly awaiting the finalisation of phase two of the Internal Audit Report, which must be processed via the Group Audit Committee and to the Mayoral Committee and finally, Council. Once this report is finalised, we will once again move swiftly to act against any persons who may be implicated or alleged to have acted improperly,” says the Mayor.

Cllr Makhubo adds that a progress report on phase two of the internal audit was due in December, however, he’s written to the City Manager signalling his dissatisfaction with delays in the process.

“I have also written to the SIU to request an update on their investigation. It is in the interest of the City and accountability that these investigations are finalised speedily,” he says.

Cllr Makhubo notes that he’s satisfied the City has contributed significantly to the well-being and safety of residents and employees during the pandemic.

“Through the provision of augmented services in water, sanitation, waste collection, temporary housing and other interventions such as the delivery of personal protective equipment to frontline workers, we have managed to provide a safety net for many that could have been infected and affected,” he says.