The Polokwane municipality has denied allegations made by EFF leader Julius Malema that it awards lucrative contracts to foreign nationals at the expense of local residents.
The claims were made by Malema during a rally in Seshego last weekend. He accused Mayor John Mpe of giving municipal tenders to Zimbabweans, leaving local people unemployed. Malema stated that while he did not oppose Zimbabweans finding work, they should do so in their own country’s municipalities.
A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, supported Malema’s claims, pointing to the recent appointment of a Zimbabwean national as the director of water and sanitation as evidence.
The municipality has dismissed these accusations. Spokesperson Thipa Selala stated that the claims are an electioneering tactic ahead of next year’s municipal polls. He provided figures, noting that the municipality works with over 150 companies, and fewer than eight of them are foreign-owned.
Selala emphasized that all tenders are awarded in strict compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act and supply chain management policies. He also confirmed the municipality’s focus on empowering local entrepreneurs, particularly youth, women, and people with disabilities.
Regarding the appointment of Kennedy Chihota as director of water and sanitation, Selala explained the decision was based on merit. He noted that Chihota is the first foreign national appointed to a senior management level and that his selection was due to his qualifications and extensive experience in South Africa. Chihota holds four master’s degrees and has held senior roles in several other South African municipalities.
