In OFM News’ search for someone to take accountability, the matter is being tossed back and forth among all the involved parties.

It is alleged that this statue was to form part of a precinct planned by the municipality in honour of the late former president, Nelson Mandela. The current “statue” consists of three poles and a two-dimensional, head-and-shoulders cut-out, allegedly costing the Northern Cape municipality R10 million.  

The Azanian People's Organisation (AZAPO) started a petition two months ago, calling for the Public Protector and Northern Cape Premier’s office to help find those accountable for the alleged mismanaged funds that were set aside for the project.

The petition has already garnered 12 951 signatures, with thousands of citizens voicing their disappointment on the platform.  

The spokesperson for AZAPO, Tebogo Maarman, told OFM News that everyone involved needs to be brought to justice. Maarman questioned how two new developments within the same area were undertaken by private companies that required municipal approval. Yet, there has been no progress on the municipality's project.

According to the Premier's Office, the project's construction is solely the responsibility of the Sol Plaatje Municipality.

OFM News spoke with the municipal spokesperson, Thoko Riet, who said it would be best to contact the ANC Provincial Office. Despite this, the ANC spokesperson, Tshepo Louw, said they choose to distance themselves from the project and the matter must be investigated.

An inquiry was sent to the provincial Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture to source its response after allegations that they were also involved in the project. This, after a source close to the project told OFM News it was run by the Sol Plaatje Municipality, together with the abovementioned department.

However, no response has yet been received.

OFM News/Bambatha Giko