The Democratic Alliance (DA) has requested the Municipal Manager of Dawid Kruiper municipality, Elias Ntoba, to institute an urgent investigation into the irregular and unlawfully approved write-off of more than R2 million in rental debt at the Eiland Holiday Resort.
Since 2022, the tenant has failed to meet contractual obligations and has accumulated rental arrears of R5,9 million. This sustained non-payment has already placed undue strain on municipal resources, making any attempt to write off the debt without due process even more concerning.
The write-off stems from a 2024 application by the tenant to have the debt written off, citing alleged infrastructure improvements valued at over R2 million. Council correctly resolved that the application be referred to the tender adjudication committee for investigation and recommendation, with a clear instruction that the final decision must return to Council for approval.
However, it has since come to light that the tender adjudication committee appears to have taken the decision to approve the debt write-off independently, without the required delegated authority or final Council approval.
This constitutes a clear overreach of its mandate and represents a serious procedural violation.
Such conduct is not only irregular but appears unlawful and in direct conflict with established municipal governance processes. It undermines accountability, weakens oversight, and sets a dangerous precedent for how public funds and municipal assets are managed.
The DA therefore demands:
- A full and independent investigation into the conduct and decision-making of the tender adjudication committee;
- Immediate public disclosure of all relevant documentation, recommendations, and decisions;
- That the unlawful write-off be reviewed and set aside;
- That appropriate disciplinary action be taken against those responsible.
The integrity of municipal governance depends on strict adherence to due process and lawful decision-making. Any deviation from this not only erodes public trust but exposes the municipality to financial risk and potential abuse.
The DA will continue to pursue this matter to ensure accountability is upheld and that no individual or structure is allowed to override Council authority or act outside the law.