Suspended Tshwane Metro Police Department deputy chief Umashi Dhlamini has rejected claims that political parties influenced procurement processes within the metro, distancing himself from allegations involving the EFF and ActionSA.
Testifying before the Madlanga Commission, chaired by Mbuyiseli Madlanga, Dhlamini said two individuals known to him from their student activist days approached him claiming to represent the EFF. He told the commission he did not believe their claims and maintained they were falsely invoking political affiliations.
According to Dhlamini, the individuals suggested they were working alongside suspended Tshwane CFO Gareth Mnisi, a claim he said was untrue. They also alleged links to EFF leader Julius Malema, which Dhlamini again dismissed.
He described the pair as individuals he had known for years, adding that they appeared to be using the names of political figures and officials to gain influence. The two allegedly presented a list of companies they wanted to be considered for a security tender.
Dhlamini told the commission he passed the list on to Fannie Nkosi, a suspended police officer, so it could be compared with information the individuals claimed Mnisi already had.
However, the commission questioned why Dhlamini did not directly verify the claims with Mnisi. Justice Madlanga criticised his explanation, stating that he should have contacted the CFO directly given the seriousness of the matter.
Dhlamini responded that he had no working relationship with Mnisi and preferred not to engage with political figures, citing personal reasons for avoiding political involvement.
He also testified that Nkosi had mentioned meetings involving political parties and communications linked to Tshwane officials, though details were not fully explained to him.
The inquiry continues as the commission examines allegations of irregularities and possible political influence in Tshwane’s procurement processes.
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