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The statement, issued by City Manager of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality (MMM) Mr Sello More, outlined the municipality’s stance while signalling a tight lip on the details of the allegations.
“The Municipality recognises and respects the constitutional and legislative mandate of the Special Investigating Unit to investigate allegations of maladministration, corruption and related unlawful conduct, and will cooperate with the SIU within the framework of the law,” More stated.
However, the City leadership declined to address specific allegations or internal procurement details, citing the ongoing nature of the statutory inquiry.
“As the matter is now the subject of a formal investigation, it would be inappropriate for the Municipality to comment on the specifics of the allegations or any issues that may form part of the SIU’s work,” the statement noted, adding that the municipality will refrain from further public comment while the process unfolds, except when deemed necessary.
High Stakes for Local Governance
The proclamation comes at a critical juncture for the Mangaung Metro, which has faced heightened scrutiny over governance, fiscal discipline, and administrative stability in recent years. The establishment and roll-out of a dedicated municipal police service were originally envisioned to enhance local law enforcement and public safety within the Bloemfontein-centred metro; however, financial oversight and tender awards associated with the force have drawn intense political and regulatory attention.
Despite the impending probe, the municipal administration maintained that it operates with integrity.
“Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality remains committed to the principles of good governance, accountability, transparency and sound financial management,” More added. “The Municipality is confident that the investigative process will be allowed to run its course and that the facts will be established through the appropriate legal processes.”
The SIU’s investigation is expected to examine contracts, tender awards, operational budgets, and administrative decisions involved in setting up the police service. If the unit uncovers evidence of criminal conduct or financial losses suffered by the state, it possesses the mandate to refer matters for criminal prosecution and initiate civil litigation to recover misused public funds.
