Uat Raises Serious Concern Over Allegations of Governance Failures in the City of Tshwane
United Africans Transformation political party (UAT)
By Doer Mighty Mabule
UAT National Spokesperson
The United Africans Transformation (UAT) notes with grave concern serious allegations involving Mr. Ruphus Mphahlele, leader of the Defenders of the People (DOP), who serves as a councillor in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and as Chairperson of the Section 79 Housing and Human Settlements Oversight Committee.
It is alleged, in a circulating audio recording on social media, that Mr. Mphahlele makes statements suggesting the irregular allocation of tenders to an associate, purportedly in exchange for financial support received during election campaigning.
These claims, if proven, point to a deeply troubling breach of public trust and a potential abuse of public office for personal or political gain.
Equally concerning are allegations that Mr. Mphahlele has failed to consistently attend council meetings, raising serious questions about his commitment to oversight responsibilities and accountability to the residents of Tshwane.
Attendance in council and committee sittings is not optional, it is a fundamental duty of elected representatives entrusted with safeguarding public resources and delivering essential services.
UAT notes that the Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality has previously taken a firm stance in line with the findings and processes arising from the Madlanga Commission, acting decisively through precautionary action pending investigations against officials implicated in wrongdoing.
In the interest of consistency, fairness, and the protection of institutional integrity, UAT submits that a similar standard must be applied in this matter.
Accordingly, UAT calls for the immediate precautionary suspension of Mr. Mphahlele from all official responsibilities, pending the outcome of a credible and independent investigation into these allegations.
Such a step is necessary to safeguard the integrity of ongoing governance processes and to prevent any potential interference.
UAT further calls on the Speaker of Council to urgently release official attendance records related to Mr. Mphahlele’s participation in council and portfolio committee meetings.
Transparency in this regard is critical to restoring public confidence in the institution.
The people of Tshwane deserve leadership that is ethical, present, and accountable. UAT remains committed to advancing clean governance and ensuring that public office is exercised in the best interests of all residents.