Limpopo Legislature Speaker Dr. Makoma Makhurupetje has come under fire following allegations that she flouted National Treasury procurement guidelines by purchasing two luxury German vehicles worth over R6 million—far exceeding the prescribed R1.2 million limit.
The controversy, first reported by City Press, claims that the legislature spent R6.5 million on high-end cars for the speaker and deputy speaker. However, Dr. Makhurupetje has dismissed the report as “malicious, misleading, and disturbing,” insisting that no such vehicles were procured for her personal use.
Speaker Denies Allegations
In an exclusive interview, Makhurupetje refuted the claims, stating that she continues to use a BMW X5 previously assigned to her predecessor. She admitted that two vehicles—a R1.4 million car for her and a R1.5 million Mercedes-Benz for her deputy—were purchased but maintained that these were within legislative needs and not personal luxuries.
“The journalist is attacking my credibility,” she said. “The administration responded to his questions, yet he still published lies. I have never demanded a second car.”
Procurement Under Scrutiny
While Treasury regulations cap official vehicle expenditure at R1.2 million, Makhurupetje argued that provincial legislatures operate under the Financial Management of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act (2009), not the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). However, she conceded that she would investigate whether the purchases breached any financial guidelines.
The speaker also revealed internal turmoil within the legislature, including a forensic audit and suspensions of finance and IT personnel over alleged irregularities. She suggested that disgruntled officials may be fueling false reports to undermine her leadership.
Public Backlash Over Spending
Critics have questioned why the legislature opted for high-end vehicles amid economic strain and service delivery challenges. Makhurupetje acknowledged public concerns, admitting, “We must spend less and ensure savings.” She pledged stricter oversight but defended the procurement process, stating some decisions were already in motion when she assumed office.
14-Day Deadline for Clarity
Pressed for transparency, Makhurupetje committed to providing a detailed report within 14 days, clarifying whether an additional vehicle was purchased and its intended use. “If the secretary misled me, I will take action,” she vowed.
As public scrutiny intensifies, the speaker faces mounting pressure to justify the expenditures and restore confidence in the legislature’s financial governance.
