The struggle stalwart would have turned 82 today. The controversy regarding her house in Brandfort in the Free State gained momentum last year. This as questions regarding the unaccounted millions earmarked to turn her house into a museum remained unanswered despite the fact that the planned museum was supposed to have been built more than a decade ago. It is alleged that more than R1,8 million of the R3 million allocated for the project had already been spent, with less to show for it.

When OFM News attended her memorial service earlier this year, which was held near the house, it was discovered that the dilapidated historic site had turned into a hub of criminal activities. Community members alleged it became a house for teenagers who smoke illegal substances and where young girls were raped. The ANC in the Free State has, however, assured the public that the planned museum will be completed by the end of 2019.

During a media briefing held last year in Brandfort, the then Free State ANC interim coordinator, William Bulwane, confirmed that security has been beefed up at the house and that there will be fencing around it. He said the museum will soon be completed and refuted allegations that funds were embezzled. Bulwane said R3 million was allocated for the project and R204 000 was spent on the designs, while R2,7 million was re-directed to renovate the Wesleyan Church where the ANC was established, ahead of the centenary celebrations in 2012.

During his visit today, Mthethwa will be expected to provide an update on the restoration and development of the site after the department appointed Risimati Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd, as the new implementing agent on 21 November 2017.

OFM News