SACP calls for corruption probe over R99.3m MMSEZ tender

The South African Communist Party (SACP) in Limpopo has called for urgent action against what it says is entrenched corruption, political intimidation and the erosion of public institutions in the province.

In a statement released this week, the party expressed concern over allegations linked to the awarding of a R99.3 million contract at the Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ).

The SACP said the allegations reflect a broader trend in which political influence is allegedly being used to interfere in state procurement and intimidate officials who refuse to remain silent.

According to the party, the situation demonstrates how public institutions are being undermined for the benefit of politically connected individuals.

The party’s concerns follow allegations involving MMSEZ board member and ANC veteran David Nkoana.

Nkoana allegedly became the target of intimidation after questioning the circumstances surrounding the awarding of the multi-million-rand contract.

The SACP said the claims warrant a full and impartial investigation to establish the facts.

It argued that officials who expose suspected corruption should receive protection instead of facing threats and intimidation.

The party described corruption as an attack on society’s most vulnerable people rather than simply a criminal offence.

It said money lost through corrupt tenders deprives communities of essential services such as housing, healthcare, education, water, electricity and employment opportunities.

The SACP also denounced what it called a culture of patronage, tender manipulation, factional politics and political gangsterism within government structures.

It maintained that public office should be exercised in the interests of citizens and not used as a vehicle for personal enrichment or political coercion.

Among its demands, the party urged the Hawks and other law enforcement agencies to launch an independent, transparent and expedited investigation into the allegations.

It further called for those found to have abused public office to face the full might of the law, irrespective of their political standing.

The SACP also appealed for stronger safeguards for whistleblowers, board members and public servants who expose wrongdoing.

In addition, it urged government to reinforce ethical leadership, accountability and good governance across all state institutions.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to supporting workers, vulnerable communities and principled public officials in the fight against corruption.

It said it would continue campaigning against the misuse of public resources and the capture of state institutions.

The SACP concluded that the people of Limpopo deserve transparent governance and public institutions that operate without fear or political interference.

The party said exposing corruption and resisting state capture remain central to its pursuit of social justice and accountable government.