Tabling the Auditor General report during the first council sitting today, business executive Odwa Duda said according to the municipality's financial statements, it is clear that there is an increase of irregular and fruitless expenditure every year.

Irregular expenditure for 2016/17 reflects an amount of R43 billion while fruitless expenditure approximately stands at R3,5 billion.  

OFM News' Katleho Morapela reports that also of high concern to the Auditor General, is the fact that the municipality is struggling to pay its creditors. The financially troubled municipality is among one of those still indebted to the water board and power utility, Eskom.

Presenting the audit report of the municipality, Odwa Duda mentioned that of great concern is not only the financial standing of the municipality, but it's governance and leadership too. He said both the Metro and Centlec's management require immediate intervention.

Meanwhile, opposition parties in the council are lambasting the Speaker, Executive Mayor Olly Mlamleli, and the entire ANC leadership for unnecessary expenditure. Some allege this is due to corruption and criminal activities suspected to be taking place within the municipality.

OFM News