POLITICS

City Power CEO should be suspended - DA

Mmusi Maimane says such a step would facilitate investigation into R1.25m smart meter contract

DA in Jo'burg calls for suspension of City Power CEO 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Johannesburg calls for the immediate suspension of City Power CEO, Mr Sicelo Xulu. 

The DA firmly believes that Mr Xulu's suspension will help to speed up investigations by the Public Protector into corruption allegations at the entity.

This investigation follows the awarding of Johannesburg's R1.25 billion smart meter contract to the Edison Corporation. The corporation is owned and operated by Vivian Reddy, who is a known friend and benefactor of the ANC.

As the Public Protector's probe involves investigating what role Mr Xulu played in changing bid scores on the contract and whether there is any financial connection between Mr Xulu, Edison and Vivian Reddy, it is appropriate that Mr Xulu is suspended. 

The City of Johannesburg must show that it is serious about rooting out and eradicating corruption. The Public Protector must also be given the opportunity to do a thorough investigation into this issue, unhampered by City Power officials. 

The DA will continue to do whatever it takes to ensure that all those involved in this scandal are brought to justice and that the entity returns to serving the people of Johannesburg as it should. 

Statement issued by Mmusi Maimane, DA National Spokesperson and DA Leader in the Johannesburg Caucus, March 5 2013

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