This follows allegations that Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero and Transport Member of the Mayoral Committee Kenny Kunene awarded a $128,000 tender to Korone Engineering, a company linked to Nigeria, to fix Lilian Ngoyi Street.

 

The street has been closed since July 2023, following a devastating gas explosion that tragically claimed one life and left several others injured. The repairs are crucial, but the involvement of a foreign-linked company has sparked controversy, with many questioning the fairness of the tendering process.

This is not the first time Morero has faced criticism over issues involving foreign nationals. Last year, the Mayor faced backlash for suggesting the hiring of legally documented foreign nationals within the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department as a measure to combat rising crime. After facing widespread criticism, including from his own party, the African National Congress (ANC), Morero quickly withdrew his proposal and issued an apology.

ActionSA’s Deputy Chief Whip in Johannesburg, Lebo Modukanene, has now called for accountability. Modukanene confirmed that the party has written a letter to  Morero, demanding answers regarding the tender award process. Speaking to the media, Modukanene stated; "The first thing that we wanted to know was the due diligence conducted in the vetting process. Were proper procurement processes followed in awarding this tender? What measures has the city implemented to ensure transparency and fairness? What actions will be taken to address the allegations and restore public confidence?"

Modukanene further says the decision to award the contract to foreign nationals raises concern about the potential exclusion of SA companies and professionals. "We cannot accept that twice the contract was awarded to foreign nationals as if South Africans do not have the capabilities to restore that road," he added.

The allegations have sparked public debate, with many calling for a closer inspection of the procurement procedures in place and the priorities of the city’s leadership. As of now, there has been no official response from the Mayor’s office.

--ChannelAfrica--