The Democratic Alliance (DA) has demanded that the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) immediately report its suspended CEO, Mduduzi Vilakazi, to the South African Police Service (SAPS) over serious allegations of fraud, collusion, and financial misconduct. This appeal follows a forensic investigation report submitted to the MTPA Board in May, which implicates Vilakazi and several senior officials in misconduct, yet no official action has been taken.
According to the DA, the report highlights a range of allegations, including fraudulent appointments and irregular project management. Notably, Vilakazi is accused of appointing Vuxaka Consulting Engineers improperly for the construction of a Visitor Information Centre. “The forensic report recommends that the Board consider recovering R9.8 million paid to Vuxaka and possibly terminating the contract, as the award violated legislative requirements,” said Trudie Grovè-Morgan: MPL – DA Spokesperson on Finance, Economic Development and Tourism
Further, the report alleges collusion involving Vilakazi, Maduna, and Siphelele General Trading (SGT) concerning the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains Geotrails, urging the Board to report any such misconduct to SAPS. Senior officials of the MTPA are also accused of authorising illegal mining activities in exchange for a 10% profit share from mining companies, with the forensic investigators instructing the Board to submit a detailed report on these allegations.
Despite the serious nature of these accusations, the MTPA Board has yet to forward reports to SAPS, despite being required to do so by July 31, 2025. Vilakazi has been under suspension since August 2024, pending the outcome of the investigation, which has cost taxpayers approximately R2.2 million.
The DA has issued a stern warning: if the Board fails to report these allegations within the next 14 days, they will escalate the matter publicly. The party emphasises the importance of accountability and transparency in addressing corruption within public institutions.