Ministry of Local Government' vehicles seized by sherrifs
In a turn of events that has shocked some legislatures, the Ministry of Local Government finds itself at the center of a controversy involving the alleged seizure of its vehicles and significant financial obligations.
The Ministry that is under specially elected Member of Parliament, Kgotla Autlwetse, is said to be owing one of the local companies money close to P40 million. Trouble began with rumors circulating that the Ministry owes P60 million to a yet-to-be-named organisation. Reports suggest that the amount was negotiated as initially, the debt was at P3 million, and never been attended to, until it escalated to P60 million. Later on the Ministry negotiated to P40 million. Over the last week, deputy sheriffs arrived at the Ministry’s premises to attach and impound vehicles due to the unpaid debt.
In a bid to prevent the wholesale seizure of their fleet, it is alleged that Ministry officials hastily changed number plates from the distinctive BX government plates to private car plates, including those on vehicles used by the Minister and his assistants.
Permenant Secetary in the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Gabatlotlane Mogapi has confirmed that some cars of the Ministry have been seized by Sheriffs. She noted that to some extent, it has affected the day to day running of the Ministry.
Spokesperson of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Masego Ramakgathi said that they are unable to engage or respond on the matter as it is before the Courts.