Public Protector asked to probe R3.7m Ekurhuleni tender linked to Matlala

THE City of Ekurhuleni says it has asked the Public Protector of South Africa to investigate an alleged irregular R3.7 million tender awarded to Tsakane Matlala, wife of suspected crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, following evidence at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

The request follows testimony at the commission last week, where allegations emerged about payments made to a company linked to Tsakane Matlala.

Last week Friday, the commission heard evidence that the company received millions of rand from the municipality.

In July 2023, the city invited bids from accredited training providers to implement professional qualification programmes.

The contract was awarded to Buena Vista Learning Academy, which, according to documents submitted to evidence leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson, was not registered as a skills development provider at the time.

Days before submitting its bid, the company had been operating under the name Mokoko Grill, described as a local shisanyama business.

The company’s sole director is Tsakane Matlala, formerly Tsakane Baloyi.