I have noted with great concern a tweet published by AmaBhungane today, alleging a kick back being provided to the EFF in connection with the award of a R 1 billion fleet contract.
Allegations of this nature are extremely serious, as are the efforts of the multi-party government to clean-up the inherited mess of fraud, corruption and maladministration.
I reject any claim that the multi-party government is complicit in any alleged act of wrong doing, having demonstrated our track record in investigating claims and acting without fear or favour.
Our efforts to combat corruption to date have seen me taking action even against Members of my own Mayoral Committee, because the efforts to clean up government can know no political orientation. I will not allow any political consideration to tarnish my reputation nor that of the multi-party government.
I will not govern at all costs.
Where wrong doing is found in this investigation we will ensure that the harshest and most decisive action is taken against those found wanting.
Ultimately, we must be judged on how we respond to serious claims of this nature. In this regard our Group Forensic and Investigation Services, under General Shadrack Sibiya, have been directed to investigate these claims fully.
I would like to assure the residents of our City that any finding of wrong doing, arising from this investigation, will be acted upon without fear or favour. We will do so openly and transparently and in a manner which will demonstrate that efforts to stop the rampant corruption the City take no cognisance of politics.
I would like to appeal to the residents of our City to afford us a short period of time to thoroughly investigate these claims.
At the earliest opportunity I will ensure the findings of the investigation are communicated openly and with the accountability this multi-party government has demonstrated since taking office.
Cllr Herman Mashaba
Executive Mayor
City of Joburg
Media enquiries:
Luyanda Mfeka
Director: Mayoral Communications
Office of the Executive Mayor
Cell: 076 171 5978
Email: luyandam@joburg.org.za
