THE Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has been drawn into the ongoing investigation into alleged maladministration and irregularities at the Hlatikulu Town Board, following indications that emerging evidence may warrant immediate intervention.
Information gathered by this publication reveals that on Monday, the commission of enquiry probing the town board’s affairs held a briefing session with the ACC. Sources familiar with the meeting said the commission appeared to be considering the submission of information that could trigger action by the anti-graft body. An official from the ministry of housing and urban development confirmed that the engagement took place and noted that consultations with the relevant ministry were continuing.
When asked whether the probe had produced any issues serious enough to refer to the ACC, Minister of Housing and Urban Development Appolo Maphalala declined to discuss specifics. However, he emphasised that any matters involving potential corruption would be handed over to the appropriate authorities once the commission completes its work.
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“We are waiting for a report. Ours, as a ministry, is to ensure that municipalities run their affairs according to laid-down rules, procedures and laws governing local government entities,” he said.
“If the probe uncovers issues relating to corruption, such information will be shared with relevant bodies like the ACC, the police or any prosecuting authority for further scrutiny.”
Maphalala added that decisions regarding possible prosecutions would depend entirely on the commission’s findings. “If there are names or information that requires further investigation, there are relevant bodies established for that purpose. They will be roped in,” he stated.
ACC Spokesperson Jabu Phakathi would not confirm whether the commission had already received documentation or briefings linked to the Hlatikulu probe.
“Section 18 of the Prevention of Corruption Act does not permit us to divulge any information regarding investigations handled by the ACC,” she said. A ministry official echoed the minister’s stance, stressing that any recommendations must be backed by solid evidence before comprehensive investigations are initiated.
The commission of enquiry continues to scrutinise allegations of flawed procurement processes, corruption, and other financial irregularities within the town board.
Municipal officials who have already testified include Town Clerk Bongani Dlamini, Accountant Artwell Dlamini, and a supplier reported to have personal ties to the town board employee. Upcoming interviews include the town treasurer and another senior official.
The testimony so far has revealed weaknesses in the town board’s accounting and billing systems, including delayed revenue and expenditure reporting. Commissioners noted that the finance committee was not given adequate time to assess financial figures before approving expenditure—an issue they said effectively bypassed the committee’s oversight role.
The enquiry also uncovered that a town board employee owns a company, as well as another linked to him, which were awarded supply tenders by the municipality—raising red flags about conflict of interest and procurement integrity.
Once the enquiry completes its work, it will compile a comprehensive report outlining its findings and recommendations. That report will determine whether the ACC, police, or other enforcement agencies initiate further investigations or potential prosecutions.
