Madibeng mayor Douglas Maimane, who is being investigated by the Public Protector for allegations of nepotism, said the allegations appear to be politically motivated and intended to tarnish his name and reputation.

Madibeng mayor Douglas Maimane.

Public Protector spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe confirmed the investigation last week. “The Public Protector South Africa can confirm that the investigation into the alleged nepotism allegations against the Mayor of the Madibeng Local Municipality is currently underway and that the matter is expected to be concluded in due course, he said. “We can’t provide more information on an ongoing investigation. Section 7(2) of the Public Protector Act prohibits the disclosure, by any person, of the contents of any document or record of any evidence given before the Public Protector or Deputy Public Protector during an investigation.”
Maimane is accused of nepotism after his daughter and the mother of his children were appointed by the municipality. The Public Protector is also investigating allegations that his son was irregularly awarded a tender by the municipality.
Maimane responded last week by refuting the claims as false, baseless, and malicious attempts to undermine the integrity of the municipality and Maimane’s leadership.
“We have noted with concern the allegations being circulated regarding the appointment of Bonolo Nkutshwe, Kagiso Modiselle, and Kedibone Motsepe, as well as the awarding of a municipal tender to Lehlohonolo Maimane. These allegations suggest that these individuals were hired or benefitted from municipal contracts due to alleged influence. To set the record straight, all municipal appointments and procurement processes are governed by established legal frameworks, including the Municipal Systems Act and the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA). These processes are overseen by relevant committees and officials, ensuring transparency and adherence to due process. I have no involvement in recruitment or tender adjudication, as these are matters handled administratively within the confines of the law,” Maimane said
“It is important to clarify that the subpoena issued by the Office of the Public Protector is directed at the municipality and not at the Executive Mayor. The institution has complied with the request for documents per legal obligations. Furthermore, the matter in question is already part of a court process, where the individual who initially made these allegations has since retracted them and apologised to me. Additionally, councillors who opportunistically attempted to exploit these claims for personal and political gain are now subjects of court proceedings, as the original author of the allegations has taken legal action to prevent them from continuing to spread the falsehoods.”
“We remain committed to serving the people of Madibeng Local Municipality with transparency, accountability, and integrity.”
Maimane said he was waiting for legal counsel and would in due course communicate the course of action to be taken to prevent damage to his integrity by people who seek to use the Public Protector to fight political battles.