KNYSNA - Boy Manqoba Ngubo has disputed allegations arising from his time at Bitou Municipality, describing the matter as a “witch hunt” and denying responsibility for a payment of approximately R1.4 million to GG&G Consulting Engineers for a report relating to Plettenberg Bay Airport.
Ngubo also said he was not interviewed by the forensic investigators who examined the matter. He resigned from Bitou Municipality after receiving a notice of suspension in October 2024.
The allegations stem partly from a forensic investigation completed in 2024 into matters arising from Ngubo’s time at Bitou Municipality. The report recommended disciplinary action over alleged misconduct while he was serving in senior management.
According to the forensic report, Ngubo was implicated in the payment of approximately R1.4 million to GG&G Consulting Engineers for the Plettenberg Bay Airport report.
The investigators alleged that the report contained substantial material copied from a 2019 economic impact study on San Francisco International Airport.
The forensic report also raised concerns about 13 generators invoiced at approximately R12.489 million, alleging that their procurement was unauthorised.
The allegations contained in the forensic report have not been tested in court.
Bredell aware of Hawks investigation
Western Cape Local Government MEC Anton Bredell has confirmed that he and his department were aware that Knysna Municipality was awaiting reports from Bitou Municipality concerning allegations involving Ngubo.
He also confirmed that his department was aware of the Hawks investigation involving Ngubo.
“You will need to enquire with Knysna Municipality as to whether they considered the nature of the HAWKs investigation when they sought my concurrence,” Bredell said.
Asked whether he had concerns about Ngubo’s suitability to continue as acting municipal manager, Bredell declined to comment, citing the possibility of legal proceedings.
“The MEC does not wish to express any comments herein as there is a likelihood that the appointment of Mr Ngubo will become litigious,” he said.
Regarding the continued use of an acting municipal manager, Bredell said the municipality would need to “legally appoint acting incumbents” while municipal manager Lulamile Mapholoba remains suspended.
Bitou Municipality responds
Bitou Municipality, in a written response dated 6 August, acknowledged questions regarding Ngubo and matters reportedly discussed by Knysna Municipal Council.
The municipality said it does not generally comment publicly on employment records, performance matters, investigations or personnel-related issues involving current or former employees, unless the information is in the public domain or disclosure is required by law.
It said requests for information from other municipalities, government institutions or authorised agencies are processed in accordance with applicable legislation and municipal policies.
“Bitou Municipality remains committed to good governance, transparency, and cooperation in responding to lawful requests for information,” it said.
The municipality said it was not in a position to comment on confidential personnel matters or alleged investigations relating to current or former employees.
“The Municipality has no further comment on this matter at this stage,” it said.
The Hawks have confirmed that the matter remains under investigation but said no further information could be disclosed at this stage.
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