eThekwini corruption scrutiny could hurt ANC in November elections, analysts warn

With the embattled e Thekwini Municipality leadership enduring intense grilling from MPs during a recent appearance before the standing committee on public accounts (Scopa), analysts say the ANC faces a difficult road ahead in the local government elections in November. The e Thekwini municipal council’s 222 seats are governed through a coalition, with the ANC — short of an outright majority — relying on support from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the National Freedom Party. The municipality has come under scrutiny over audit outcomes, alleged corruption and escalating irregular expenditure. During an appearance before Scopa earlier this month, executive mayor Cyril Xaba, city manager Musa Mbhele and chief financial officer Dr Sandile Mnguni fielded tough questions about R6.4 billion in irregular expenditure accumulated over two financial years, controversial contracts, administrative failures and unread water and electricity meters that contributed to a 53% non-revenue water loss. Pressure on Mnguni has also intensified after allegations raised in an EFF election campaign poster calling for him to step down. The poster alleged that Mnguni hired his wife, who serves on the municipality’s bid evaluation committee while he chairs the committee. “The legal department continues to litigate against contractors and refuses to pay, despite the Auditor-General’s findings that contractors must be paid within 30 days,” the poster read. “This is why corruption, irregular expenditure and service delivery failure continue, while officials protect their own and the city manager looks the other way. Heads must roll,” it said. Responding to a question from EFF MP Mazwi Blose during the Scopa hearing, Mnguni confirmed that his wife served on the bid evaluation committee, which recommends tenders to the accounting authority. Xaba, Mbhele and other municipal officials defended the city’s procurement compliance and financial management systems, saying corrective measures were be