ActionSA pushes for urgent disclosure of R1.8 billion chemical-toilet tender in Ekurhuleni

ActionSA has intensified its call for the City of Ekurhuleni to urgently table a forensic report into the awarding of a R1.8 billion chemical toilet contract, saying the delay in releasing the findings undermines public confidence in the city’s commitment to accountability.

The party’s Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate, Xolani Khumalo, said the report has been withheld from council for several months despite growing concern over allegations of irregularities in the tender process. “If this report is not presented before the end of October, we will take this as proof that the city is deliberately avoiding scrutiny,” Khumalo said.

The report, compiled by the city’s late chief auditor, Mpho Mafole, was completed in June 2024. Mafole was later shot and killed near Esselen Park, a development that has added urgency to ActionSA’s demand for transparency.

Khumalo said the scale of the contract, combined with Mafole’s death, warranted full disclosure and public discussion. “A deal of this size requires openness from the city’s leadership. Hiding the report only fuels suspicion,” he added.

The City of Ekurhuleni has rejected claims of concealment, saying it is following proper procedures under municipal law. Acting spokesperson Ramatolo Tlotleng said only the speaker, council committees or the executive are authorised to request or table official reports.

Tlotleng added that the city remains committed to compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act and the municipal supply chain regulations. “Information on awarded tenders is publicly available on the city’s website, and all procurement processes are subject to council oversight,” he said.

Despite these assurances, ActionSA maintains that the city’s procedural explanations are insufficient. The party believes the delay reflects a reluctance to address possible misconduct and says that transparency should take priority over bureaucracy.

Governance experts note that the dispute underscores broader challenges in municipal governance, where procurement processes often become politically charged. They argue that making the report public could strengthen oversight and restore public trust in local government.

ActionSA said it is exploring further options to compel disclosure through council motions and oversight bodies. “The public deserves to know how their money is spent. We will not rest until the full report is tabled,” Khumalo said.

The City of Ekurhuleni has yet to confirm when the report will be presented to council.