GOOD Statement by Marius van Stade, GOOD Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor:
GOOD Stellenbosch has submitted a motion to the Office of the Speaker and the Stellenbosch Municipal Council calling for the appointment of an independent investigator to investigate serious allegations of irregular municipal property transactions made by former Deputy Mayor, Councillor Mynhard Slabbert.
The allegations relate to municipal property transactions entered since 2018 and raise concerns regarding compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), the Municipal Systems Act, and other legislation governing the disposal, sale and leasing of municipal property.
The motion, submitted by GOOD Councillor Marius van Stade, further requests that Council be provided with a report on the investigation reportedly being conducted by the Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Anton Bredell, following confirmation by the Speaker of Council and public comments made by the MEC.
GOOD believes that these allegations are too serious to ignore. If proven to be true, they could have significant legal, financial and governance implications for Stellenbosch Municipality. The MFMA is clear and specific on the obligation on municipalities to manage public assets in a manner that is transparent, accountable, fair and in the best interests of the public.
Municipal property is a public asset and any disposal, sale or leasing thereof must comply with legislative requirements, proper oversight mechanisms and Council-approved processes. Good governance requires that municipal decisions are taken lawfully, transparently and without favour or undue influence.
It also requires that Council exercises effective oversight over the administration and management of municipal assets. Where allegations arise that these principles may not have been adhered to, Council has a duty to investigate the matter thoroughly and independently to protect public resources and maintain public trust.
“Council has a responsibility to establish the facts and ensure full transparency regarding the management of municipal assets. The public deserves clarity and accountability. An independent investigation will assist Council in determining if the Municipality has complied with its legal obligations and whether any corrective action is required,” said Councillor Marius van Stade.
GOOD Stellenbosch believes that transparency, accountability and sound financial governance are fundamental principles of local government and that residents deserve certainty that municipal assets have been managed in accordance with the law and in the public interest.
GOOD Youth Focus: The party places a strong emphasis on youth empowerment and engagement.
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