THE DA in Limpopo is calling on the provincial legislature to account for R6,5 million that was spent on two luxury vehicles.
This after a Mercedes-Benz GLC valued at R2,5 million and a GLC Coupé valued at R4 million were allegedly purchased for the speaker, Dr Makoma Makhurupetje.
DA legislature spokesman Franco Marx said these allegations raise serious concerns about financial prudence and accountability.
He said it is deeply disturbing that such extravagant purchases are being made while Mzansi struggles to maintain basic fiscal stability.
"Parliament has only recently managed to adopt a national budget after three failed attempts. This alone is a sign of the country's deepening budgetary crisis," he said.
He said for the speaker to authorise or benefit from the purchase of luxury vehicles under the economic conditions shows a complete disconnect from the lived reality of ordinary South Africans.
"It is tone-deaf, wasteful and morally indefensible. We will further submit questions to the legislature for written response to satisfy ourselves that all facts are laid bare to justify such excessive spending in the current economic climate," said Marx.
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During a television interview, Makhurupetje said the allegations are malicious and misleading.
"I've never demanded a second vehicle because when I arrived at the legislature there was a BMW X5 that was used by the former speaker. I was using the vehicle," she said.
She said the vehicle is sitting at 188 000km and is still using it as a reliever when there is no other vehicle.
"I have never seen the vehicles mentioned. When I was told that there was a vehicle that was bought, I enquired. Administration told me that they were working on making sure that they capacitate their fleet unit to make sure they are able to transport members.
"It's a shock to me that the vehicle was for the speaker and it's a lie that we've spent R6,5 million," she said.
Legislature spokesman Andries Lekalakala said the previous vehicles which were used by the former speaker and deputy speaker were utilised by the speaker and deputy speaker until they were replaced after exceeding the permissible 150 000km.
"The office of the speaker has directed the accounting officer to conduct an investigation and provide her with a report," he said.
