Samwu calls for broader probe into Mandela funeral funds

SAMWU in the Eastern Cape is calling for the Hawks to investigate all the municipalities that were involved in Nelson Mandela’s funeral arrangements, including the provincial and the national government.

Samwu provincial secretary Siphiwo Ndunyana said cor ruption at local government in the province “is institutionalised and is a defining feature in the sector”.

This follows the arrest of senior Buffalo City officials, including the mayor Zukiswa Ncitha, her deputy Themba Tinta, council speaker Luleka Simon-Ndzele and councillor Sindiswa Gomba.

Arrested along with them is acting director of the mayor’s office Ondela Mahlangu, as well as ANC regional secretary Pumlani Mkolo.

Charges relate to payments amounting to more that R6- million to a company belonging to taxi owner Mzwandile Sokwali and his wife Busisiwe Boti.

East London businessman Dean Fonoe and Johannesburg based lawyer Zintle Nkuhlu, who allegedly benefited from the payout are also expected to hand themselves over to the Hawks by Friday.

Ndunyana said the R6-million could have been used to improve the lives of ordinary people and townships within BCM.