Ombudsperson urges residents to report corruption
ETHEKWINI residents should not be afraid to report fraud, corruption or maladministration as all reports will be treated with the utmost care and confidentiality.
That’s the assurance from the Ombudsperson and Chief Investigator, Isaac Matlala. “We urge the public to take a stand and report any irregular activities of officials,” he said. Matlala’s office is responsible for ensuring clean and accountable administration in the Municipal area through transparent, and fair service delivery. “The person reporting the crime can remain completely anonymous and if they do reveal their identity it will be treated as confidential.” Matlala said reporting these crimes was in line with the Local Government anticorruption strategy. “We need to strengthen relationships with stakeholders and the community so that we can have a clean administration.”
The Ombuds Office also works hand in hand with law enforcement. In some cases they link up with the police so that they can guide each other when crimes are reported. “Awareness must be created as we want to know about what is happening around us,” Matlala said. Raymond Zungu, Senior Manager at the Ombuds office said when a report is filed, “the matter is investigated in a fair and non-partisan manner and corrective action is recommended.” “Where improper conduct involving a violation of a person’s human rights is found, the Ombuds Office will recommend an appropriate remedy. In instances of corruption and other criminal conducts, prosecution will be recommended. In either case the offender will be disciplined and may face dismissal,” Zungu said.
He urged the public to make use of complaints boxes at Sizakala Centres or to call the hotline 0800 202020 or the office 031 311 2002. They may also visit their office at 41 Margaret Mncadi Avenue.
ROMITA HANUMAN
hanumanR@durban.gov.za