Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp - The DA in council is asking questions about a Matlosana councillor’s security bill that is being footed by the taxpayer.
Cllr Gerhard Strydom revealed last month that it cost the Matlosana Municipality just more than R1,2 million from October to end of April to pay for six bodyguards for Cllr Wesley Kgang. Kgang is the MMC for Local Economic Development.
Strydom is now asking that the appointment of bodyguards be investigated. “It seems that the appointment of these personnel was carried out without adherence to established municipal protocols, policies and procedures. The appointment of security was made without approval by the Council, a formal risk assessment, or compliance with procedure and government regulations,’’ he said.
Under the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers Act, 1998 (determination of upper limits for members of municipal councils), security may be provided to a councillor subject to a threat and risk analysis conducted by the SAPS, and then only two bodyguards per shift of a two-shift system. Kgang has six bodyguards.
According to Strydom, questions raised with the Municipal Manager on this issue were not answered other than to acknowledge that no risk assessment by the SAPS was done.
“This is a serious breach of municipal processes. Public resources cannot be used at the discretion of unqualified, ignorant individuals. There must be transparency and accountability, especially where taxpayers’ money is involved.’’
* Klerksdorp Record could not reach Kgang for comment.
