Durban – 3 October 2025, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has sent a strong message to citizens: corruption, nepotism, and fraud will not be tolerated under his leadership.
Addressing the media in Durban, Premier Ntuli said the people’s vote in 2024 was a call for a government that delivers services fairly, puts integrity first, and acts decisively against wrongdoing.
“This government belongs to the people. Integrity and service must always come first,” he said.
October Dedicated to Accountability
The Premier announced that October will be a month of transparency. Every week, the province will release updates on completed forensic investigations into allegations of fraud, maladministration, and corruption – many dating back to previous administrations.
He added that when the provincial government’s capacity is limited, they will lean on independent bodies such as the Public Protector and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to ensure justice is served.
What’s Under Investigation?
During the briefing, Premier Ntuli highlighted three urgent matters:
Health Department Medico-Legal Scandal
Two investigation reports uncovered shocking irregularities in how certain law firms handled claims against the Department of Health between 2018 and 2021. Money meant for vulnerable children, including those living with disabilities, was allegedly mismanaged.
Key findings included:
• Funds not transferred into required trust accounts
• Claimants’ money invested without authorisation
• Beneficiaries living in poor conditions despite receiving large payouts
The Premier confirmed that the matter has been handed to the SIU for deeper investigation.
Transport Tender Irregularities
In the Department of Transport, allegations have surfaced around a R672 million public transport tender, questionable road contract variations worth over R146 million, and the extension of a traffic management contract.
Senior officials, including the Head of Department, Mr S.J. Mbhele, have been implicated. Premier Ntuli announced that Mbhele has been suspended while the SIU and law enforcement agencies investigate further.
Whistleblower Victimisation in Arts and Culture
Concerns have also been raised about the treatment of a whistleblower in the Department of Arts and Culture. The official, who reported financial wrongdoing, claims to have been victimised.
The Premier stressed that government supports whistleblowers and will thoroughly investigate these claims to ensure fairness.
A Call to Citizens
Premier Ntuli assured the people of KwaZulu-Natal that no one implicated in wrongdoing will be protected.
“We will not allow a few individuals to tarnish the credibility of this government or undermine service delivery,” he said.
He urged citizens to give the SIU and other authorities space to complete their investigations and promised regular updates throughout October.