The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg has demanded a full investigation into irregular tenders awarded during former Transport MMC Kenny Kunene’s tenure, with whistleblowers now implicating Mayor Dada Morero in alleged undue influence over procurement processes.
DA Johannesburg Caucus leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku revealed that whistleblowers have come forward with claims of corruption within the Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) and Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC) during Kunene’s administration. Kunene recently resigned as Transport MMC and was suspended by his party, the Patriotic Alliance (PA), following the allegations.
Mayor Accused of Evading Accountability
Kayser-Echeozonjoku criticized Mayor Morero for what she described as avoiding responsibility by allowing Kunene to resign rather than addressing the allegations head-on.
“The mayor is running away from his responsibility,” she said, adding that while Kunene can no longer be investigated by the city’s ethics committee due to his resignation, the contracts awarded under his watch must still be scrutinized.
She further alleged that some officials involved in tender processes may have been unduly influenced to favor politically connected contractors.
Calls for SIU, National Treasury Intervention
The DA has called for investigations by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and National Treasury to determine whether Kunene, Morero, or other officials improperly influenced tender awards.
“The mayor has the power to approach the SIU or National Treasury directly to probe these contracts,” Kayser-Echeozonjoku stated. She also raised concerns over the relocation of the MTC to the Transport Department, suggesting it was done to benefit the PA.
Concerns Over Another “Talk Shop” Inquiry
The DA leader expressed skepticism about the newly announced commission of inquiry into allegations of political interference in law enforcement, led by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
“We worry this could be another Zondo Commission—lots of talk, little action,” she said, referencing past inquiries that failed to result in prosecutions.
Next Steps
With Kunene’s resignation, the DA insists that the incoming Transport MMC must ensure transparency and clean governance. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on Mayor Morero to address the corruption claims or face further scrutiny.
The city has yet to respond formally to the allegations, but the DA vows to pursue legal and investigative avenues to hold those involved accountable.
