City Power has reaffirmed its confidence in its leadership after an independent forensic investigation cleared Chief Executive Officer Tshifularo Mashava and her executive team of any wrongdoing.
The City Power Board announced that an independent review, commissioned earlier this year through the Audit and Risk Committee, found “no factual substantiation” for the allegations made in various media reports. The probe, led by Mncedisi Ndlovu & Sedumedi Attorneys (MNS), examined claims ranging from nepotism and unqualified appointments to irregular procurement and weak internal controls.
After months of document reviews, interviews, and verification of recruitment and procurement processes, the report concluded that none of the allegations, particularly those directed at the CEO, had merit. On the issue of nepotism, the investigators found that Mashava had no involvement or influence in any appointments linked to her alleged relatives.
The report found that allegations of nepotism against Mashava were baseless because she was neither part of the interview panels nor internal teams that shortlisted candidates.
“The CEO was not part of any of the interview panels nor was she part of the officials that approved the shortlisted candidates,” read part of the report.
“With regards to the allegation that the relatives of the CEO were appointed in circumstances where they “usurp[ed] more suitable candidates”, we found that the Recommendation Reports ranked each candidate first but for the internship programme as there was no ranking recorded. In light of the above, we find that there is no basis on which the allegations of nepotism can be supported and in fact, it is without merit.”
The report also cleared Mashava of wrong-doing regarding allegations of procurement irregularities. It found no evidence that City Power paid one company an exorbitant amount of money for supplying mops with wooden handles.
“The BEC recommended the appointment of Muhlohloteri Trading and Projects (Pty) Ltd for an amount of R5 175 000 (VAT inclusive). On 20 September 2023, the EXCO Adjudication Committee accepted and approved the recommendation of the BEC and awarded the tender.
“There is no evidence that City Power has paid Muhlohloteri. This position is further supported by the Internal Audit Report that records that City Power has not yet paid Muhlohloteri. In view of the above, we conclude that there is no merit in the allegation that City Power paid R15 384.82 procuring 400g long hair mops with wooden handles.”
City Power Board Chairperson,. Makhosini Kharodi, welcomed the outcome, saying it provided much-needed assurance to both the Board and the public.
“The Board is satisfied that the investigation was thorough and independent. It has reaffirmed our confidence in the leadership of Ms. Mashava and the executive team. The Board takes comfort in knowing that governance systems are being strengthened and that the entity continues to operate with integrity and accountability,” said Kharodi.
The investigation also dispelled claims of inflated contractor payments and irregular procurement. According to the report, all payments were supported by valid completion certificates and made in line with procurement policies and regulations.
While the report cleared the executives, the Board acknowledged that there are still areas for improvement. It has committed to implementing all recommendations from the review to further enhance governance, strengthen internal controls, and minimise future risks.
This forensic review forms part of City Power’s broader clean-up and reform campaign, which began earlier this year. The initiative seeks to improve transparency, root out corruption, and restore public trust in Johannesburg’s key power utility.
“We are happy that the organisation has already taken appropriate actions, in some instances against those who were implicated, especially senior managers,” Kharodi added.
“The executive team has presented a plan to tighten identified gaps, and the Board will maintain close oversight to ensure effective implementation.”
Speaking to African Times on Friday, Mashaba said the report provides much-needed clarity and vindication for the organisation and its leadership.
“We welcome the findings of the independent investigation report, which reaffirm City Power’s long-standing commitment to governance, transparency, and accountability in all our operations. The report provides much-needed clarity and vindication for the organisation and its leadership, and we are encouraged that it confirms our adherence to due process in procurement and other key governance matters. As City Power, we remain resolute in strengthening systems that promote ethical conduct, service excellence, and the responsible use of public resources for the benefit of Johannesburg residents,” said Mashaba.
City Power said it remains committed to upholding high ethical standards and acting in the best interests of the City of Johannesburg and its residents.
“Our focus is to keep the lights on for the people of Johannesburg and ensure that City Power continues to operate efficiently and transparently,” Kharodi concluded.
