Press Statement by – Alberto Franco DA Councillor Lekwa Local Municipality
-The municipality’s CFO is unlawfully occupying his position and is making irregular decisions.
-The municipality is disregarding COGHSTA and formal procedures.
-We have asked the Public Protector to investigate these matters.
31 August 2026
Release: Immediate
The DA in Lekwa has lodged a complaint with the Public Protector (PP) over the appointment of the municipality’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Khumbudzo Nemavhidi, and his decision to extend a multimillion contract with a service provider without following due processes.
Nemavhidi was appointed September 18, despite the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) not concurring with his appointment. The MEC subsequently recommended that the appointment decision be rescinded. However, he has continued to serve in the position.
During a Council meeting on August 27, the Council was asked to approve a R1.9 million extension of scope to a service provider known to the DA. This is despite concerns that the required processes, including public participation, were not followed.
The CFO also informed Council that the revised GRAP 104 requirements did not require the extension to be subjected to public consultation. The DA believes this advice was incorrect and may have misled Council on the legal requirements governing the contract extension.
The original contract was valued at R8.4 million, with a previous extension of R800,000. The latest R1.9 million extension represents approximately 22.6% of the original contract value.
Given the seriousness of these matters, the DA reiterates that the municipality should immediately remove the CFO. This is a necessary step to protect the integrity of the municipality and to ensure that there are sound financial management processes.
Repetitive unlawful procedural defective appointments create a perception of political corruption, favouritism and patronage. We urge Lekwa residents to take note of these shortcomings ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections.
Under a DA government, senior management and personnel will be accountable for their actions based on measurable outcomes. The DA will not tolerate mismanagement and corruption at the expense of taxpayers.
Lekwa residents cannot afford continued uncertainty around the legality of key financial decisions. Political protection must not come before accountability.The functionality and sustainability of the municipality should be prioritised.
The DA will continue to fight for transparency and good governance. We will not remain silent and watch the ANC led government disregard the Municipal Structures Act.
For Media Enquiries:
Alberto Franco
DA Councillor Lekwa Local Municipality
072 846 3132