Public Protector findings reveal irregular appointments at Stellenbosch Municipality

Public Protector Busiswe Mkwebane has released findings following an investigation into allegations of improper conduct and maladministration by Stellenbosch Local Municipality regarding staff appointments.

The 2019 complaint relate to the alleged irregular appointment of Director of Strategic and Corporate Affairs in 2016 and and the Chief Financial Officer in 2019 .

The complaint pointed to the remuneration package and the contract of the Director and the appointment of the CFO who was appointed on a 10-year term, which was later changed to a permanent position. The complainant believes the changes were unfair towards other possible candidates.

Mkwebane found that both appointments were not in accordance with required legal prescripts and the allegation of both being irregular appointments, is substantiated.

Meanwhile, Mkhwebane says she believes there’s a moratorium on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s intention to suspend her until the matter is heard in court. The 10-day period that Ramaphosa afforded Mkhwebane to furnish him with reasons why she should not be suspended ended yesterday.

This follows the decision by Parliament to kick-start its inquiry into her fitness to hold office.

Mkhwebane says they have argued that the President is conflicted because her office is investigating him and also questioned the process that was followed by National Assembly Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula.

Mkhwebane expects the matter to be heard end of April

The matter is likely to be heard in court at the end of April.

“I think we’ll be filing our papers tomorrow because there’s an agreement between our legal teams on changing leadings and documents, but it will depend on whether the Judge President will decide on those timelines. We are proposing by the 25th/ 26th of April, the matter will be heard in court.”

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