The African National Congress (ANC) in Limpopo has declined to comment on corruption allegations against Polokwane Executive Mayor John Mpe, despite mounting public scrutiny. The party instead focused on outcomes from its recent Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) meeting, sidestepping questions about Mpe’s alleged involvement in tender irregularities and kickbacks through his Makoro Foundation.
Mpe, who also serves as the ANC’s regional chairperson in the Sekhukhune region, has denied the accusations, calling them a “smear campaign” against him and the municipality. However, controversy deepened this week when the Polokwane Municipal Council approved the appointment of Zimbabwean national Kennedy Chihoda as the new director of water and sanitation—a decision that has sparked backlash on social media.
Foreign National Appointment Sparks Outrage
Residents of Polokwane expressed frustration over the hiring of a foreign national for a key municipal position, particularly amid ongoing service delivery challenges, including water shortages and sanitation issues.
During a post-council media briefing, Mpe defended the appointment, stating that Chihoda’s expertise was critical in addressing the city’s “historical water backlog.”
“We were looking for someone with experience in both municipal operations and leading a water entity,” Mpe said. “How many qualified South Africans are willing to leave big metros to work in Polokwane?” He further emphasized Chihoda’s engineering qualifications, suggesting a lack of suitable local candidates.
Critics, however, questioned whether no South African professional could meet the job’s requirements, reigniting debates over employment equity and service delivery failures.
ANC Avoids Addressing Allegations
Meanwhile, the ANC’s Limpopo leadership refused to engage with allegations against Mpe, stating it would only act once an official report was presented.
“We want to make correct pronouncements, not be swayed by public sentiments,” said a party representative. “Once we receive a report on the situation in Polokwane, the ANC will respond accordingly.”
The PEC also announced plans to consult branches about holding an early provincial elective conference, as the current leadership’s term expires in June 2025.
Public Demands Accountability
With corruption allegations unresolved and a controversial appointment fueling discontent, residents and opposition parties are demanding transparency. As the ANC remains silent, pressure mounts on Mpe to address both the graft claims and the municipality’s service delivery challenges.
For now, the ANC’s reluctance to intervene leaves Polokwane’s leadership crisis unresolved, with citizens awaiting decisive action from the ruling party.