Response to allegations pertaining to George

4 April 2019

The Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, Anton Bredell has noted comments made by the leader of an opposition party in the province, Ms. Patricia De Lille pertaining to the George Municipality.

Sadly, Ms. De Lille has made unfounded statements that are devoid of fact.

The Western Cape Government prides itself on taking strong action against any allegations of corruption and acting on wrongdoing without fear or favour.

In addition, the provincial government is always prepared to answer to any questions relating to impropriety and wrongdoing with a clear conscience, hence this statement.

In this matter, Ms. De Lille states that “evidence (of alleged corruption) has been repeatedly reported to the provincial government which has failed to act…”

If Ms. De Lille cared anything for the rule of law, or at the very least cared for the truth, she would have contacted me or the municipality in question to determine the facts first.

The facts in this matter are this:

The Provincial Government is in fact fully aware of the allegations pertaining to a possible investment scheme at the George Municipality.

A criminal matter has been reported to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI) in George – known as the Hawks - and the provincial department has been in frequent contact with the DPCI in this regard. The DPCI office in George can be contacted for further information.

In addition, the Municipality has procured the services of a forensic firm to investigate the allegations and the Provincial Department is further aware that the Municipality has in fact already initiated disciplinary processes against the implicated municipal official.  

Further to the above, the Provincial Government is also aware that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) might explore the possibility of a Proclamation into the matter, should there be sufficient cause to do so.   

While I am fully aware of the election season and the need to score cheap political points by grandstanding I would urge politicians to act responsibly and at the very least desist from spreading unverified rumours. It’s simply not a good idea.

In the Western Cape we believe in sticking to the rule of law and not play acting in the court of public opinion.

ENDS.