Dihlabeng Local Municipality: Public Protector Finds Irregularity

2 December 2003

The Public Protector has released his report on an investigation of a complaint by a Member of Parliament alleging improper soliciting of funds for a political party by officials of the Dihlabeng Local Municipality.

The complaint emanated from a letter, typed on an official letterhead of the Municipality and addressed to a number of businesses in the Bethlehem area, stating that "(t)he ANC Councillors requested that we approach you on behalf of the ANC and ask for a donation to assist them financially to enable them to make a success of their Anniversary Celebrations". It was dated 8 January and signed on behalf of the Acting Municipal Manager.

The key findings made from the investigation were that:

• The request for a donation for the ANC that was initiated, drafted on an official letterhead and distributed by the Acting Municipal Manager and he Acting Financial Manager to local businesses in the area of the jurisdiction of Dihlabeng,was unlawful, improper and highly irregular;
   
• It compromised the integrity and credibility of the Municipality and was not done in its best interest; and
   
• The conduct of two officials involved, breached the Code of Conduct of Municipal Staff Members.

The Public Protector recommended that:

• The breach of the Code of Conduct for Municipal Staff Members by the two officials involved be dealt with in terms of the disciplinary procedures of the municipality, and in compliance with the provisions of the Code; and
   
• The Municipal Council take steps to ensure that officials of the Municipality are aware of the provisions and meaning of the Code, in compliance with the provisions of section 70 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act 2000.

Enquiries: Nicolette Teichmann
Tel: (012) 322 1190
Cell: 082 333 5624

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