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04 Oct, 2025
Cape Town cannot hide behind spin while billions go missing
Statement by Bongani Maqungwana, UDM Councillor in the City of Cape Town The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Cape Town notes with grave concern the large-scale police raids conducted across Cape Town this week in connection with alleged fraud and corruption involving R1.6 billion worth of municipal contracts. Reports indicate that 26 properties, including the private residences of municipal officials and businesses linked to tenders, were searched with documents and electronic devices seized as part of the ongoing investigation by the South African Police Services (SAPS). While we recognise the importance of law enforcement acting on credible whistle-blower information, it is deeply troubling that once again the City of Cape Town finds itself at the centre of allegations of corruption, maladministration and questionable procurement practices. These scandals come at the direct expense of ordinary residents who rely on municipal services and who expect that every rand of public money is spent on service delivery, not siphoned off through shady contracts. The UDM is particularly concerned that the spectre of “tenders for cash” has become a recurring theme in Cape Town’s governance. Allegations of links to underworld figures and repeat instances of unlawful contracting erode public confidence and reinforce the perception that corruption is entrenched rather than being rooted out. We caution against premature self-congratulation by the City for “cooperating” with SAPS. True accountability does not come from spin but from transparent investigations, full disclosure and holding individuals, no matter how senior, personally liable if they are found complicit. The UDM therefore calls for: • The immediate suspension of any officials under suspicion to prevent interference with evidence. • Law enforcement to ensure prosecutions follow swiftly so that whistle-blowers and the public see justice done. Cape Town’s residents deserve a municipality that prioritises clean governance and service delivery, not one mired in allegations of corruption worth billions. The UDM will continue to monitor these developments closely, engage relevant oversight bodies and demand accountability at every level.
