Endumeni MPAC Chairperson calls for probe into ‘costly road. upgrade tender

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24-11-2025
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Northern Natal News
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MPAC chairperson launches a probe after residents question the costly Hajee Jama Street rehabilitation tender.

The project to rehabilitate the notorious stretch of Hajee Jama Street in Peacevale has been widely welcomed, but a probe is now being launched into the R13.4-million tender award.

Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) chairperson, Cllr Naresh Gopie, said the winning bid was R3-million higher than the lowest bid, and acknowledged “serious lapses in processes and communication” that have raised public concern.

“I offer my sincere apologies for the distress and uncertainty this has caused,” he said. “We are taking these matters seriously and are committed to restoring public confidence through full transparency and corrective action.”

Cllr Gopie added that the situation has inevitably fuelled perceptions that Endumeni’s financial integrity and procurement procedures may have been compromised.

“There is a perception, whether accurate or not, that the tender process may have been influenced by improper conduct. This must be investigated thoroughly,” he said.

Investigation and reforms announced

Cllr Gopie confirmed that an independent investigation will examine the tender process, including specifications, evaluation criteria and any possible conflicts of interest.

“We will publish the findings of this investigation in full, along with any corrective measures or penalties that may follow,” he said.

MPAC will also introduce procurement reforms, including:

• Greater transparency in tender evaluations
• Mandatory separation of duties and whistle-blower protections
• Regular external audits of procurement processes

A clear investigation timeline will be set, with accountable officials identified for each phase. The municipality also plans to hold town hall meetings to keep residents informed.

‘We must rebuild trust’

“Residents are right to feel frustrated when promises are not matched by action,” said Cllr Gopie. “We must rebuild trust through humility, transparency and consistent communication.”

He said oversight from opposition parties, civic groups and the community would be welcomed.

“It is our collective duty to protect Endumeni’s reputation and ensure that governance serves all residents — not a select few,” he concluded.

This is the second time in recent months that concerns have been raised about road repair tenders. In October, the Courier exposed irregularities in a premix tender — awarded at double the lowest bid — to a company registered only three months earlier. Acting municipal manager Martin Sithole later confirmed that the bid was cancelled and a new process would be initiated.