Joburg DA wants all of fraud-accused Kabelo Gwamanda’s agreements investigated! The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg has called for a comprehensive investigation into all agreements and decisions made by former mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, who is currently facing fraud charges.
Kabelo Gwamanda, a member of the Al Jama-ah party, was recently removed from his position as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development due to an ongoing court case linked to allegations of defrauding people through a funeral policy scam.
This request for an inquiry highlights the DA’s concerns over Gwamanda’s actions in office and the integrity of his dealings while in power.
Joburg DA wants all of fraud-accused Kabelo Gwamanda’s agreements investigated
Fraud Allegations and Removal from Office
Kabelo Gwamanda, formerly the mayor of Johannesburg, was later appointed as the MMC for Community Development. However, his tenure came under scrutiny when allegations of fraud surfaced. Gwamanda stands accused of running a funeral policy scam, allegedly defrauding numerous people under false promises.
The scandal surrounding these allegations led to his removal from the mayoral committee, a decision that the DA has supported, citing the importance of transparency and accountability in public office.
The DA’s concern is not only about Kabelo Gwamanda’s alleged criminal activities outside of his political role but also about any questionable decisions he may have made in his official capacity. They believe that his influence in government could have affected the integrity of certain agreements and decisions, and therefore demand a deeper investigation into his record as mayor and MMC.
DA Demands Investigation into Agreements and MOUs
DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader Belinda Keyser Echeozonjoku expressed the party’s concerns over the agreements and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) that Kabelo Gwamanda signed during his time in office.
Echeozonjoku emphasized the need for a full investigation into all of Gwamanda’s official dealings, stating, “The DA demanded that a full investigation be done into all agreements and MOUs signed by Cllr Gwamanda during his time as mayor and also as MMC for Community Development.”
This request highlights the DA’s apprehension that Kabelo Gwamanda’s alleged fraudulent activities may have influenced his work in government. The DA fears that he might have engaged in unethical practices or entered into agreements that may not have been in the best interest of Johannesburg residents.
According to Echeozonjoku, transparency in all government dealings is essential, and an investigation could uncover any improprieties and prevent future abuses of power.
Controversy Over the Renaming of Sandton Drive
One of the specific issues the DA has highlighted is the contentious decision to rename Sandton Drive to Leila Khaled Drive. Leila Khaled is a well-known Palestinian activist, and the decision to rename a major Johannesburg road in her honor has stirred significant controversy.
The DA has raised doubts over the legitimacy of the signatures gathered for this renaming, questioning whether Kabelo Gwamanda and current executive Mayor Dada Morero can be trusted.
Echeozonjoku expressed the DA’s distrust, demanding a full forensic investigation into the signatures that both Kabelo Gwamanda and Morero reportedly received for the renaming project. She added, “It is evident that they cannot be trusted.”
The DA believes that the decision to rename Sandton Drive may have been conducted in a way that lacked transparency, potentially using forged or otherwise questionable signatures. A forensic investigation, the DA argues, would determine the authenticity of the public’s input and clarify whether the decision was made ethically.
Concerns Over Gwamanda’s Replacement
In addition to their critique of Kabelo Gwamanda, the DA has expressed apprehension over his replacement, Patriotic Alliance Councillor Tebeho Nkounkou.
The DA has labeled Nkounkou a “divisive character in the council,” suggesting concerns that his appointment might further destabilize the council and disrupt cohesion within Johannesburg’s leadership. While the DA did not elaborate on specific grievances with Nkounkou, their statement implies skepticism over his ability to unify and lead effectively.
The DA’s concerns reflect an ongoing struggle within Johannesburg’s political landscape, as coalition governments and shifting allegiances have created an environment of volatility. The party’s apprehension over Nkounkou’s appointment suggests they may closely monitor his actions, especially given the shadow cast by Gwamanda’s alleged misconduct.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
The DA’s push for an investigation into Gwamanda’s time in office emphasizes the importance of transparency and integrity in government.
The opposition party’s demands reflect a commitment to uncovering any wrongdoing that may have occurred under Gwamanda’s tenure, ensuring that Johannesburg’s leadership is held accountable. By calling for a forensic investigation and questioning recent decisions, the DA aims to reassure Johannesburg’s residents that ethical standards are being upheld in their city’s administration.
