Friday, 18 November 2011

City officials slapped with suspensions

No stone will be left unturned when dealing with corruption. That’s the word from the City of uMhlathuze as further allegations of financial irregularities are being investigated. This after three City officials were subsequently issued notices of precautionary suspensions last week. The respective officials were reportedly requested to submit in writing reasons as to why they should not be suspended on Friday. Questioned whether there would be an internal disciplinary hearing, City Chief Communications Officer, Vukile Mathabela said the proper internal processes would be instituted. ‘The individuals were called in for a meeting on Friday and submitted their response in writing. ‘We are weighing options internally and the process is on-going. ‘The individuals are now at home while we finalise internal processes by the end of the week,’ said Mathabela. The municipality would not detail the charges, adding that they were still deciding whether to suspend or not. ‘If the suspensions are confirmed, then we will outline the charges. ‘After the investigative process, we could either suspend or recall some of the individuals,’ added Mathabela. However, the Zululand Observer has learned that the three individuals were given further suspension letters on Tuesday after consideration of written responses last Friday and pending the investigation. It is alleged that one official had reportedly transferred certain amounts of money to personal bank accounts and the matter is being investigated by the SAP for possible criminal charges. The other two officials face charges of alleged negligence and complicity. The alleged irregularities were uncovered by the Auditor-General’s office, which reportedly is in possession of substantial evidence.

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