Okhahlamba council faces backlash over R20m debt write-off

THE Okhahlamba council is embroiled in controversy after the municipality's decision to write off a R20-million debt without prior approval from its councillors has sparked outrage among members of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC).

- SIPHO JACK

The tension escalated when DA councillor Meshack Mlangeni voiced concerns surrounding financial mismanagement, putting pressure on the municipality to account for its actions while requesting a forensic report from the Finance MEC.

Despite a previous council agreement to investigate the municipal debt situation, the coalition leadership at Okhahlamba proceeded with the debt write-off regardless.

Mlangeni, speaking to the Daily News, echoed the frustrations of the opposition party, highlighting how the decision reflects a pattern of negligence in the municipality's handling of public funds.

“There has been irresponsible management, particularly with funds perceived as misused and wasted,” Mlangeni stated.

He emphasised the alleged lack of accountability from the Chief Financial Officer and the Financial Municipal Manager.