The IFP calls for an investigation into the extravagant and wasteful expenditure of public funds on luxury car hire for the mayor of OR Tambo Municipality in the Eastern Cape.

IFP Spokesperson on Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr Peter Smith said, "It is ridiculous that R224 825.70 was spent on unnecessary car hire. The municipal mayor cannot be allowed to live like a king while the people are in desperate need of services such as water and proper sanitation. The mayor clearly needs to adjust his priorities when it comes to spending."

The municipality owns six mayoral vehicles that are available for his use, yet money was spent unnecessarily on other luxury cars.

"The Chief Whip of the OR Tambo council stated that it is customary for the mayor to hire a car whenever there is an event. This is a clear example of the endorsement of reckless spending of public funds. The municipal manager, Tshaka Hlazo, must account for the money used and ensure that no more cars are hired for the mayor," said Smith.

The IFP calls on the MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs in the Eastern Cape Mlibo Qoboshiyane, the Provincial ANC leadership and the Public Protector to investigate this issue. The money used for these vehicles must be repaid by the mayor and those who approved for the funds to be used in such a manner.

Hon Peter Smith MP, 083 299 9687

or

IFP Parliamentary Caucus' Media Liaison Officer, Mr Phendulani Biyase, 073 024 5675