EThekwini Municipality City Manager Musa Mbhele has publicly defended himself against allegations of corruption and maladministration following criticism over service delivery failures and controversies surrounding municipal tenders.Mbhele faced tough questions during a special public meeting held in Hillcrest on Thursday evening. The meeting was organised by the Xubera Institute for Research Development, led by political analyst Xolani Dube.
Representatives from Solbeth Protection Services and Integrity Forensic Solutions (IFS) used the platform to raise concerns about their disputes with the municipality. Solbeth Protection Services is embroiled in a long-running battle with the municipality over a R230 million tender, while IFS has been involved in investigations relating to alleged corruption in a R320 million Durban Solid Waste (DSW) tender.
Solbeth representative Siyabonga Xulu accused the municipality of failing to pay the company for services rendered during the tenure of former city manager Sipho Nzuza.IFS representative Leo Saunders claimed that investigators had faced intimidation while probing allegations linked to former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede and other accused persons. He further alleged that cases involving the municipality had not received adequate attention.
When given an opportunity to respond, Mbhele strongly rejected the allegations.”Since I am being criticised so widely, why am I not being arrested? My crime is that I refused to sign things that are against the law. I appeal to anyone who sees me doing something corrupt to come forward and have me arrested. I chose this profession because I want to serve honestly and improve the lives of the people,” said Mbhele.He also dismissed allegations regarding irregular hiring practices involving female employees.
“You know what is sad? Every time I leave home dressed smartly, my wife asks whether I am going to ‘deal with them’ today,” he joked, drawing laughter from the audience.The meeting was attended by representatives from several political parties, including Phil Sithole of the MK Party and Philani Mavundla of the ABC. Mbhele was accompanied by legal expert Malusi Mhlongo, who provided explanations regarding the status of various legal matters involving the municipality.
