The Sasolburg-based municipality responded directly to former EFF member and councillor April Tibisi Motaung, who recently made comments under the Fezile Dabi District Civic Movement. Motaung had referenced a R900m figure, a purported R188m unauthorised withdrawal, and a R50m payment to the Lizell Trust.

Municipal spokesperson Gino Albert clarified the R900m is not a new allegation but a cumulative value reflected in previous financial years, as reported by the Auditor-General of South Africa. The figure is currently receiving due oversight by the municipal public accounts committee (MPAC), he said.

It said the characterisation of the cumulative figure as a “scandal” is unfounded and distorts the technical, audit-based context in which such figures are reported.

On the R188m “unauthorised withdrawal,” the municipality said the narrative ignores its approved investment policy. Under the policy, funds are actively managed instruments that can be strategically placed and withdrawn as operational requirements dictate.

“The municipal manager, as the accounting officer, is empowered to manage municipal cash and investments within approved parameters and in line with legislative prescripts. Portraying a regulated financial adjustment as unlawful is not only inaccurate but creates a false impression of misconduct where none has been established through due process,” said Albert.

Regarding the R50m Lizell Trust payment, Albert said the matter is subject to legal processes and the municipality continues to act in strict accordance with legal advice, court processes, and its administrative obligations.

“Mr Motaung is a former councillor who served within the very system he now critiques. The issues he raises, to the extent that they relate to the interpretation of legislation regulating governance matters within a municipal environment, were within his knowledge and participation during his tenure,” he added.

Albert warned that public statements omitting this context risk distorting reality rather than contributing constructively to accountability.

OFM News sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.