ActionSA Acknowledges SAPS Action on Polokwane Tender Irregularities, Demands Mayor Mpe’s Resignation and Calls for Greater Scrutiny

ActionSA acknowledges the statement released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, under the leadership of Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, regarding the tender irregularities case registered against the Polokwane Municipality at the Polokwane police station today. ActionSA commends the SAPS for the swift registration of this critical case, which pertains to alleged tender irregularities occurring between January 10, 2023, and July 28, 2025.

The complaint, lodged by ActionSA, states that tenders were allegedly awarded irregularly and in violation of the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act and the Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment Act during the specified period. These allegations include the irregular payment of R750 million to companies reportedly with close ties to Mayor John Mpe and the municipal manager.

ActionSA urges that this matter be treated with the utmost attention and urgency. The referral of this case to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, for further investigation and handling, is a vital step that ActionSA welcomes. We trust that the DPCI will carry out a thorough and impartial investigation into these serious allegations of corruption and maladministration within the Polokwane Municipality.

Furthermore, ActionSA insists that Mayor John Mpe resign immediately. His ongoing presence in office, amid serious allegations of corruption and the suspected irregular payment of R750 million, shows that he is not suitable for public office. Mayor Mpe’s dismissal of these allegations as a “political smear campaign” appears to be an attempt to divert attention from the pressing issues, even though he has confirmed that companies owned by foreign nationals are conducting business with the municipality.

ActionSA will advocate for better service delivery for the residents of Polokwane, who have been deprived of essential services due to alleged corruption and mismanagement of public funds. We remain committed to fighting corruption and ensuring that public resources are used for the benefit of all citizens, not for the enrichment of a select few. We acknowledge that Build One South Africa (BOSA) has also approached the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to initiate forensic investigations into these allegations, further highlighting the widespread concern about this issue.

ActionSA will keep a close watch on the progress of this investigation and will take all necessary measures to ensure justice is done. Those responsible for corruption are held accountable.

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