03/08/2017: Mashaba Removes MMC for Economic Development for Alleged Misconduct
Today, I have taken the decision to remove the MMC for Economic Development, Cllr Sharon Peetz, from the Mayoral Committee, on grounds of suspected misconduct. The Federal Executive of the Democratic Alliance has agreed to this move.
Cllr Peetz, will be referred to the Party for consideration of further disciplinary processes in order to determine her culpability.
During the course of a council meeting earlier this year, an allegation was levelled against Cllr Peetz that she had acted irregularly in arranging for a family member to accompany her on an official trip to Spain.
Through a forensic investigation conducted at the time, it was determined that the City had not incurred any costs for the travel of the family member. It was therefore determined that the allegations levelled against the Cllr Peetz at the time were without merit.
Recent evidence has been brought to our attention that the proof of payment, between Cllr Peetz and the Travel Agent, which the councillor had provided to my office as proof that she had paid the travel agent, was allegedly falsified. Further forensic investigation has been undertaken into the proof of payment. It is stressed that the money concerned remains allegedly owed to the Travel Agent, and it remains the case that the City has not incurred any losses.
Through her actions, it is my belief that Cllr Peetz has misled myself, the Council and the residents of Johannesburg.
I have made it clear that, under my leadership, the City of Johannesburg will not tolerate such conduct any longer.
Irrespective of one’s role in the City, and irrespective of your political affiliation, there will be accountability for wrongdoing.
The comfort that I offer the residents of our City, is that for the first time, our residents will learn of such acts of misconduct and they will see action taken.
A new era of accountability has dawned in the City of Johannesburg. Unfortunately this has not yet removed the dishonesty that drives the actions of some individuals. It does however mean that wherever it is found, action will be taken and our residents will be informed and treated with the respect that they deserve.
While a decision is carefully considered for a new MMC of Economic Development to be appointed, MMC Dr Mpho Phalatse has agreed to act in the position.
Cllr Herman Mashaba
Executive Mayor
City of Johannesburg
For further information, please contact:
Luyanda Mfeka
Acting Director of Mayoral Communications
Office of the Executive Mayor
City of Johannesburg
Tel: 011 407 6727
Cellular: 076 171 5978
Email: luyandam@joburg.org.za"> luyandam@joburg.org.za
