The Kouga Municipality, in a statement, said that they have recently
become aware of acts of fraud and corruption relating to the illegal sale of
electricity and have acted immediately and decisively to ensure clean
governance and transparency.
As a result, eight officials have been suspended. Two of these officials
have since resigned and an internal and external investigation is currently
underway.
The Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, has condemned the alleged acts of
fraud and corruption and said that maladministration or any other dishonest
activities of a similar nature will not be tolerated.
“Irregular activities will be investigated and followed up by the
application of all remedies available within the full extent of the law, as
well as the application of appropriate prevention and detection controls.
Suspects who are found guilty will be subjected to formal criminal charges,”
said Bornman.
He also urged residents to report any suspected maladministration to
the office of the Municipal Manager and/or Office of the Executive Mayor.
Residents who suspect or have witnessed dishonest activities are urged to
report these activities to 071 885 9888. They will remain anonymous, and the
process will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
The statement further said that the municipality considers transparency as
a crucial element of good governance and will continue to keep the public
informed of further developments.
