The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Eastern Cape has welcomed the Public Protector’s report into the controversial construction of the Lesseyton Stadium, though the party criticized the delayed release of the findings.
The stadium, built in 2019 near Komani at a cost of over R18 million, has been widely condemned for its poor quality and alleged financial mismanagement. The Public Protector’s investigation uncovered serious procurement irregularities involving the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, including improper tender processes and overspending.
Key Findings
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The bidding process was allegedly manipulated, with the contract awarded to the fourth-highest bidder instead of the most cost-effective option.
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The project exceeded its budget by R4.7 million without proper approval.
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Municipal officials implicated in the scandal have since moved to other municipalities, raising concerns about accountability.
DA Reacts: “A Slap in the Face for Residents”
DA Eastern Cape MPL Chantel King, who hails from the Enoch Mgijima constituency, expressed frustration over the delayed report, stating that it allowed implicated officials to evade consequences.
“Many of those responsible have left the municipality and secured jobs elsewhere—some even in the Western Cape,” King said. “This report should have been released sooner to prevent them from simply moving on.”
She emphasized that the stadium, intended to bring hope to a struggling community, instead became a symbol of wasted resources.
“For R18 million, residents got a poorly constructed field with uneven grading, substandard fencing, and a small guardhouse—far from what was promised,” King added.
Recommendations and Next Steps
The Public Protector’s report includes binding recommendations, such as:
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Municipalities employing the implicated officials must take disciplinary action.
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The Eastern Cape Premier must address the findings within 90 days.
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The case has been referred to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) for possible criminal charges.
King confirmed that the DA will push for further scrutiny, including:
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A probe into other questionable contracts in Enoch Mgijima, such as a R1.2 million luxury mayoral car that exceeded spending limits.
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Demanding accountability from the Municipal Manager and Bid Adjudication Committee.
Broader Implications
The scandal highlights systemic issues in local government procurement, where officials accused of maladministration often resign and find work in other municipalities. King called for stricter regulations to prevent such “recycling” of corrupt officials.
“This municipality is one of the worst in the Eastern Cape, with massive irregular expenditure. We need urgent intervention,” she said.
What’s Next?
The DA plans to escalate the matter in the Eastern Cape Legislature, ensuring the Public Protector’s recommendations are enforced. Meanwhile, residents of Lesseyton are left with a stadium that fails to meet basic standards—a stark reminder of governance failures in struggling municipalities.
