The Grahamstown High Court has affirmed Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane's recommendations regarding the plundering of public resources to the tune of R300-million in the funeral and memorial services of former President Nelson Mandela by the Eastern Cape's provincial government.
According to weekend media reports, the province's Director-General, Marion Mbina-Mthembu had asked the court to have Mkhwebane's findings reviewed and set aside, but lost the bid and her case was dismissed.
This now paves the way for the recommendations, which are binding by law, to be executed.
In December 2017, Mkhwebane released her 333-page report into the misappropriation of public funds, improper conduct and maladministration by the provincial government and several other organs of state, including four municipalities, in connection with expenditure incurred for Madiba's funeral and memorial services.
The court's decision has been welcomed by the DA in the Eastern Cape.
Premier candidate, Nqaba Bhanga, said that In December 2017 they laid criminal charges against Mbina-Mthembu and other implicated officials at the East London Police Station and will now be seeking an update on the investigation.
