Lephalale MM under investigation

Lephalale Municipal Manager (MM), Bob Naidoo, was placed on special leave on Monday following a special council meeting held last Thursday. The matter relates to a forensic investigation into alleged irregularities in respect of upgrades of sewer pump station 1 and 23.
According to sources within the municipality, an internal audit
recommended that a forensic audit be done regarding possible irregularities. Naidoo then
appointed Siswe Ntsaluba Gobado who completed the audit in October last year. The report recommended that disciplinary actions be taken against all staff implicated in the matter. The council decided to suspend Andrew Leseka, head of sanitation and April Shiko divisional head of water.
The Mayor, Jack Maeko, was tasked with proceeding with disciplinary action against the MM while he remained in his post.
The decision by council was criticised by the South African Municipal Workers Union who called for Naidoo’s suspension. In a statement to the media SAMWU Regional Secretary, Patric Aphane said: “Council has failed to act on the recommendation given by the forensic audit report and the High Court chamber to take disciplinary action against the MM, Bob
Naidoo, due to his
negligence of proper control over the financial administration of the Municipality. Failure to suspend those who are implicated including
Naidoo may have consequences that possible witnesses may be intimidated and evidence and documents may also disappear.”
Public debates over the issue placed added pressure on council to act and at a council meeting last Thursday council decided that it would be best to place Naidoo on special leave while the matter is being investigated. Sources say the investigation could take up to six weeks.