The ANC caucus in Ekurhuleni has expressed concern over allegations of security tender fraud in the city, calling for an independent forensic investigation into the matter.
In a statement on Monday, the caucus emphasized its commitment to fight fraud and maladministration, stating that the reported irregularities in the awarding of security contracts worth over R2-billion by the City of Ekurhuleni municipality require immediate action.
“Ekurhuleni ANC caucus has noted with ‘extreme concern’ the reported allegation of irregularities in the awarding of security contracts worth over R2-billion by the City of Ekurhuleni municipality,” reads the statement.
“Of great concern is the allegation of suspected political meddling and pressure in influencing the awards.
“Given our commitment of confronting instances of fraud, corruption and maladministration, the ANC caucus will seek accountability and simultaneously call for an independent forensic investigation.”
The concerns raised by the ANC caucus stem from allegations of suspected political interference and pressure in influencing the awarding of contracts. It is alleged that municipal officials may have bypassed proper procedures to appoint specific bidders.
Sunday World reported at the weekend that 10 security companies including Calvin & Family, Khayalami Security CC, KNM Security, LL Security, and Mabotwane Security Services have jointly written a letter to the City of Ekurhuleni demanding transparency and accountability in the procurement process.
The letter, sent by the companies’ legal representatives Albert Hibbert Attorneys, raises questions about the speed at which the municipality awarded a new security contract.
The companies question how the evaluation bid committee could have thoroughly evaluated bidding documents from 231 bidders, conducted site inspections, and appointed successful companies in just 25 days after receiving the tender bidding documents.
They highlight that the bidding process typically takes months and express concern over the lack of communication regarding the outcome of their bids.
According to the aggrieved companies, they were initially appointed by the municipality in August 2020 to provide security services until June 30 2023.
However, in April 2023, the city advertised a new contract and received bids from a total of 232 companies including those already providing services.
The companies expected a fair bidding process with thorough evaluations and site inspections for short-listed entities, but they allege that this did not occur.
The ANC caucus has said that it supports the demands made by the companies, but insists on a comprehensive investigation to address the allegations.
“We take note of the reported written submission by the aggrieved companies demanding answers about the procurement process,” the party said.
“However, the ANC caucus believes that a complete independent investigation by credible institutions should be the immediate route.”
Follow @SundayWorldZA on Twitter and @sundayworldza on Instagram, or like our Facebook Page, Sunday World, by clicking here for the latest breaking news in South Africa. To Subscribe to Sunday World, click here.
