The Executive Mayor of Polokwane, John Mpe, has dismissed explosive corruption allegations involving tender irregularities worth over R700 million, labeling them a politically motivated smear campaign. The claims, brought forward by a whistleblower, implicate Mpe and Municipal Manager Thuso Nemugumoni in alleged fraud involving incomplete projects and duplicate payments to companies linked to them.
Explosive Allegations Surface
A leaked document circulating online alleges that 28 companies were paid millions for unfinished projects, with some payments appearing to be duplicated. The report further claims that certain businesses tied to Mpe and Nemugumoni’s associates benefited from these transactions.
The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for a full investigation, while the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has demanded the immediate dissolution of the municipal council under Section 139(1)(c) of the Constitution, which allows for the disbandment of a dysfunctional municipality.
Opposition Reacts
DA Caucus Finance Spokesperson Jacques Joubert expressed deep concern over the allegations, stating, “It’s a real concerning issue… at the moment, it’s all allegations, but there needs to be a full investigation.”
EFF Limpopo Chairperson Lawrence Mapoulo insisted that the municipality is beyond repair, saying, “The problems in this municipality are unmeasurable. They will never be resolved by the Hawks.”
Mayor Fights Back
Mayor Mpe and municipal officials have denied all accusations, calling the leaked documents “fabricated” and part of a smear campaign by disgruntled individuals. Authorities emphasized that there is no law preventing the municipality from doing business with legally registered foreign-owned companies.
Mpe specifically refuted claims that a R56 million tender was irregularly awarded to a Zimbabwean-owned company, dismissing the allegations as “false, defamatory, xenophobic, and dangerous.”
Residents Voice Frustration
Meanwhile, residents of Polokwane have expressed anger over the scandal, with one stating, “Corruption is just too high in this municipality. Our mayor is doing as he wishes with his friends… it’s too much, especially here in Polokwane.”
Municipal officials have urged anyone with evidence of wrongdoing to approach law enforcement agencies. As pressure mounts, the calls for an independent investigation grow louder, leaving the public waiting to see whether these allegations will lead to accountability or be dismissed as political warfare.
