Polokwane Executive Mayor John Mpe has defended the municipality’s decision to award tenders to companies owned by foreign nationals, stating that there is no law barring such contracts. His remarks follow public backlash over reports that multi-million-rand projects were given to Zimbabwean-owned businesses.
Mpe confirmed that while R360 million in tenders were awarded, only about R180 million went to a foreign-owned company. He insisted the process was legal, arguing that foreign-owned firms should not be excluded if they meet procurement requirements.
He noted that similar companies operate across Limpopo, working with other municipalities and provincial departments. However, Mpe declined to reveal the exact number of tenders awarded to foreign-owned businesses in Polokwane, raising transparency concerns.
Amid allegations of corruption—including claims of kickbacks—Mpe announced plans for a lifestyle audit covering all municipal employees, even the Municipal Manager. This comes after reports that the City Manager is building a R20 million luxury home, sparking questions about possible misuse of funds.
The audit aims to restore public trust in procurement processes. Meanwhile, the municipality remains under intense scrutiny as debates over governance and accountability continue.