Suspended Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) CEO Mduduzi Vilakazi is now officially facing disciplinary action after a forensic investigation found prima facie evidence of maladministration and corruption during his tenure.
This was announced by Economic Development and Tourism MEC Makhosazane Masilela during a recent media briefing, where she released the long-awaited findings of the probe into alleged misconduct relating to projects at the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains World Heritage Site.
Labour court dismissed case
Vilakazi was suspended on August 5. He approached the Labour Court in October, where he unsuccessfully challenged the legality of his suspension. He argued that it had lapsed after 60 days.
The court ruled that the disciplinary code he relied on was not legally binding. It also ruled that the complexity of the case justified a longer suspension. The matter was dismissed with costs, leading to the forensic investigation continuing.
“I deem it necessary and believe it is in the public interest to release the findings of the investigation to the public,” said Masilela.
“The investigation found that there is a prima facie case against the CEO and some officials at MTPA. [This] warrants disciplinary processes to be instituted against them by the entity.”
Masilela said the disciplinary process would be guided by law, emphasising fairness and due process.
Process guided by the law
“The disciplinary process is a necessary instrument to implement consequence management. And this shall be done in full compliance with applicable legal prescripts such as the principle of Audi Alteram Partem and the principle of Natural Justice. As espoused in our legal system.”
Masilela confirmed that she had first received complaints from stakeholders and landowners. They had raised alarm over irregularities involving appointments and project implementation at the heritage site.
“These allegations relate to, amongst others, alleged financial misconduct and irregular appointments of service providers. Also non-compliance with prescripts in the implementation of the projects,” she said.
These included the upgrading of the geotrail, development of an Integrated Management Plan, construction of a Visitor Information Centre, and installation of directional signage.
Vilakazi was suspended shortly after the board of MTPA was informed of the allegations and resolved to investigate. The forensic report was submitted to the board on May 19, 2025.
Masilela expressed full support for the board’s next steps.
“I welcome the findings of the investigation. And I expect the board to expedite the disciplinary processes as it relates to the CEO and the other officials so that the matter is concluded expeditiously, without any delay.
“As soon as the disciplinary processes are finalised, I commit myself to convene a similar media briefing to update you and the public at large regarding the outcomes and findings in this regard,” she said.
Provincial governance
She concluded by aligning the investigation with the broader goals of provincial governance.
“This investigation was in line with the three priorities of the seventh administration. With special attention to the priority of ‘Building a Capable, Ethical, and Developmental State’.”
The scandal has had ripple effects beyond the province.
In November 2024, the corruption allegations attracted national attention, prompting Minister Dion George to visit Mpumalanga, The visit led to a public clash with Masilela after he bypassed her during private stakeholder engagements.
Despite being given an opportunity to respond, Vilakazi did not reply to a media inquiry sent to him.
