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We as COPE welcome the decision by the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Integrity Commissioner to investigate allegations into irregularities by former MEC for Local Government and Housing – Hon. H M Z Mmemezi. We applaud the decision by the former MEC to step down. However, we are concerned that Mr. Mmemezi waiting so long to do the right thing.

If the allegations are proven true, we are confident that the justice system of our country will place this matter to rest without favour and that former MEC Mmemezi will be guaranteed a fair legal process.
Any public serving official is aware of his/her duties when entering into their office, with the full comprehension of the importance of abusing public funds and its implications thereof.

Using a government credit card and government allowance for private use is unjustifiable to the citizens we serve and as public representatives, we cannot allow such behaviour to occur in public office.
It is unfortunate that MEC Mmemezi failed to comply with the declaration of Members Public Interest. It would appear that the money which was spending was only reimbursed due to the knowledge of his extravagant spending being made public.

The Department of Local Government and Housing and the Province cannot be held at ransom for the actions of any public servant. Work in the department must continue in a transparent and accountable manner, as these are the values which COPE stand for.