Democratic Alliance (DA) Johannesburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille has promised to launch an independent investigation into alleged corruption within the City of Johannesburg if her party wins the upcoming local government elections.
Speaking at the DA’s campaign rally in Nasrec on Saturday, 17 October, Zille said Johannesburg needed “its own Madlanga moment”, referring to the national commission investigating alleged criminality and corruption within the criminal justice system.
Zille pledged that the proposed investigation would include public hearings and published findings, allowing residents to scrutinise allegations of wrongdoing within the municipality.
“Joburg needs its own Madlanga moment. We will initiate an independent investigation into the corruption that has crippled the city, with public hearings and published findings,” she said.
City contracts under scrutiny
Zille said a DA-led administration would use evidence from the Auditor-General, whistle-blowers and the Zondo Commission, among other sources, to investigate alleged corruption.
She also promised to strengthen the city’s anti-corruption capacity, protect whistle-blowers and shield investigations from political interference.
The DA mayoral candidate said municipal contracts would face greater scrutiny, particularly those considered the largest or most suspicious. She pledged to make procurement processes more transparent by disclosing who received contracts, how much they were paid and what work was delivered.
“No more secret deals. No favours for connected friends. No work, no pay,” Zille said.
Part of a wider plan for Johannesburg
The proposed corruption investigation forms part of Zille’s five-point plan for the city, which also includes improving municipal finances, appointing capable officials, improving services for residents and restoring law and order.
She has promised to address wasteful spending, improve the billing system, strengthen essential services and take action against officials found to be involved in corruption.
The DA is seeking support in Johannesburg ahead of the local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.
Zille’s proposed investigation remains a campaign pledge. Its implementation would depend on the DA securing control of the municipality and establishing the necessary processes to carry it out.
