ActionSA files Public Protector complaint amidst Western Cape Government's failure to recoup misused taxpayer funds

14 November 2023

ActionSA has officially filed a complaint with the Office of the Public Protector as a result of the failure by the Speaker of the Western Cape Government to implement the recommendations contained in an investigation by the State Attorney, Ms. Tanya Lombard.

The State Attorney’s investigation revealed that the Deputy Speaker of the Western Cape Legislature, Beverly Schäfer, wrongfully used a luxury BMW X5 SUV, resulting in fruitless and wasteful expenditure totalling R158,297.86.

In light of these findings, the State Attorney directed that the Speaker of the Western Cape Legislature, in his capacity as the Executive Authority of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, initiate the recovery of the fruitless and wasteful expenditure from the Deputy Speaker.

Despite our follow-ups, we are concerned about the notable lack of progress regarding the implementation of the State Attorney’s recommendations. Consequently, we have filed a complaint with the Office of the Public Protector to ensure accountability and adherence to the State Attorney’s recommendations.

Our complaint formally requests the Office of the Public Protector to conduct an investigation, focusing on the current status of the implementation of the State Attorney’s recommendations and whether both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker may have conducted themselves in a manner inconsistent with the expected standards for public office bearers, particularly in fulfilling their obligation to uphold accountability.

ActionSA believes that the true measure of a Government's ethical standing lies in its unwavering dedication to transparency and accountability. Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that the Western Cape Government adheres strictly to the highest standards of ethical governance.

Issued by Michelle Wasserman, ActionSA Western Cape Provincial Chairperson, 14 November 2023