Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
16 July 2024 | 07:55 CAT
Gauteng Cogta and Infrastructure MEC Jacob Mamabolo. [Image- X/EWN}
The explosive VBS Mutual Bank collapsed in 2018 due to the mass looting that took the place of the bank. This scandal, one of the biggest in South Africa, involved the misappropriation of funds and left many investors, including our residents, in financial distress. It is highly unlikely that any of the money our residents invested with this bank will recover.
According to an affidavit by the defunct bank’s former chairperson, Tshifhiwa Matodzi, Mamabolo allegedly requested VBS to settle a R3 million conference bill owed by the South African Communist Party (SACP) at the Birchwood Hotel in Kempton Park in 2017. This alleged action has cast a shadow over Mamabolo’s dealings with VBS, a matter of grave concern for the public.
DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga said if Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who has the authority to appoint and suspend MECs, is committed to ensuring that all MECs appointed to his executive are fit for purpose, he will suspend Mamabolo immediately.
Msimanga said the portfolios overseen by MEC Mamabolo are critical to service delivery, and we cannot have a MEC in that position who has a cloud hanging over his head regarding his dealings with VBS.
He said his party, which moved to the opposition benches after talks collapsed with the ANC over executive positions, will be tabling questions in the Gauteng provincial legislature to determine what steps Premier Lesufi will take against Mamabolo in light of the new allegations that have surfaced. This move gives the DA a platform to hold the ruling party accountable and ensure transparency in government actions.
“The DA will continue to demand that lifestyle audits be conducted on all the MECs and that these reports be made public. This will ensure that our residents receive the service delivery they deserve and that no public funds are lost to corruption,” he added.
Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and DA Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga here.
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