The Human Settlements MEC has come under fire for his birthday bash, which was partly funded by a company who was doing business with his department.
The MEC has admitted the business owner, a building contractor, was a long-time friend of his, but insists he knew nothing of the “surprise party”.
He says Phumla Zantsi, a partner in Lawula Trading and Construction, who contributed R3 000 towards the cake, had joined the department before he did.
However, opposition parties in the legislature wants him investigated, alleging that he awarded contracts to a construction company linked to his brother, an allegation Madikizela denied, saying he and the person simply shared a surname.
Madikizela said he earned almost R2 million a year and didn’t need sponsors to throw him a bash.
In a statement released yesterday, the Western Cape Government confirmed it is looking into the matter.
“Premier Helen Zille has noted a media report on allegations around the funding of Human Settlements Minister Bonginkosi Madikizela’s birthday celebration.
“The Premier is currently following due process to establish the facts of the matter. Should further action be required, this will be done in line with good governance practices.”
It added that provincial government systems “exclude politicians from processes relating to the awarding of contracts”.