The response below was provided by the municipality.
1. One forensic investigation was completed in 2017-18 financial year. The Municipal Council approved the appointment of an independent audit firm to conduct the forensic investigation as per Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) recommendation in line with the recommendations by the Auditor General of South Africa (AGSA).
(i) (aa)The forensic investigation was instituted to investigate allegations of gross negligent, misconduct and fraud.
(bb)The findings of the forensic investigation highlighted correction measures in the following areas:
(ii)The forensic investigation report was tabled before Council on 28 February 2018.
(iii) The Council approved that the Accounting officer must execute the implementation plan based on the recommendations for each finding.
2. There is no forensic investigation currently underway at the municipality.
3. I will request the municipality to submit a copy of the forensic report and the progress report on the implementation of the recommendations emanating from the forensic report to the Department for assessment. Based on the outcome of the assessment, I will then take the necessary action to ensure that the matter is finalised.