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The DA in the Eastern Cape will write to the Public Protector to request an investigation into a star-studded soccer tournament to be hosted in Port St Johns this weekend.

The two-day tournament kicks of tomorrow and prize money to the tune of R20 000 is up for grabs. A line-up of star-studded guest including the Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane, and former soccer legends Doctor Khumalo, Jabu Mahlangu, Mike Mangena and Lucky Lekgwathi, will also be in attendance.

This tournament takes place in the run-up to the Port St Johns Ward 2 by-election to be held on Wednesday, 14 May 2023, and has allegedly been organised and planned by the ANC.

Despite the ANC advertising it as their event, we have been informed that the main sponsor of the tournament is allegedly the bankrupt Port St Johns municipality.

The ANC is clearly desperate because they know that there is a very real chance that they will lose Ward 2.  They have neglected the people and service delivery has basically ground to a halt.

I will now write to the Public Protector to request an investigation to ascertain if any public funds were used to sponsor the tournament.

The DA supports any efforts to uplift sport - especially in rural areas which are marginalised by the governing party. However, it can never be accepted when the ANC is allegedly using taxpayers’ money to finance its political activities disguised as a sports tournament.

If these allegations are proven to be true, the DA will ensure that those responsible for wasting the public’s money are held to account.

The DA will continue to fight for basic services and good governance to be brought back to Port St Johns.

Issued by Mlindi Nhanha MP - DA EC Deputy Provincial Leader and OR Tambo Constituency Leader