Speaker, Cope will believe that this government is sincere in its promise to root out corruption and nepotism when we see it happening. Corruption is a monster; it must be brought down.
The municipality of Setsoto in the Free State suspended the municipal manager for, amongst other things, inefficiency; nonperformance; misuse of MIG, or municipal infrastructure grant, funds; irregular payment of R500 000 to a firm of attorneys; and unilaterally appointing a dismissed employee as a consultant. The House must note that the council was unanimous in its decision to suspend the municipal manager. However, the regional secretary of the ANC and the MEC, who indicated that they had a mandate from the premier, stepped in to demand a reversal of the decision on the basis that this was an ANC matter. Councillors were threatened with dismissal if they didn't have a change of heart.
As I stand here, this very municipality is applying for a bank overdraft of R36 million to pay salaries. It is in a deep crisis. How much deeper will it be allowed to go? Considering the role of the ANC in the fiasco that is unfolding there, Cope is asking for the role of the premier and the MEC to be investigated at once. The situation is serious and heads must roll.
However, we are waiting to see if the President will take any action as he has said that he is against corruption. Thank you.