The DA in Mkhondo calls on the MMC for Financial Services, Thokozani Manana to strengthen Supply Chain Management (SCM) policies in the municipality.
This comes after it emerged that the municipality’s disregard for SCM procedures has delayed the finalization of service delivery projects.
The DA understands that delays in appointing contractors for some projects in the municipality is also a concern. This was also substantiated in the recent audit committee report where it was stated that management must start complying with SCM procurement plans.
It is well publicized that the municipality is struggling to provide reliable electricity provision, constant water supply and refuse collection services.
Notably, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has already triggered section 106, where they are investigating a number of financial misconduct acts in the municipality. Amongst those is R77 million that was meant for service delivery but was allegedly mismanaged.
The ANC administration needs to understand that in any sphere of government Supply Chain Management is critical for good governance, financial sustainability, and service delivery. It also has a direct impact on audit outcomes and residents as consumers of government services.
The mismanagement of funds and contravening Supply Chain Management cannot go unpunished. The DA reiterates that taxpayers money is not for self enrichment while residents suffer.
The municipality’s Financial Service has a mandate to ensure that it enhances fiscal discipline, accountability and practices sound governance in accordance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).
We therefore anticipate councillor Manana to act swiftly and attend to these shortcomings. We will not let incapable deployees of the ANC deprive residents of service.