Suspended Tshwane Chief Financial Officer Gareth Mnisi appeared before the Madlanga Commission on Monday and firmly denied any personal relationship with EFF leader Julius Malema. He was questioned about WhatsApp messages in which he was allegedly sent lists of companies linked to a tender that had already closed.
The Madlanga Commission heard dramatic testimony on Monday as suspended Tshwane Chief Financial Officer Gareth Mnisi took the stand. Mnisi was questioned at length about WhatsApp messages that appear to show him receiving lists of companies linked to a tender that had already closed.
The WhatsApp Exchange in Question
Commissioners focused on messages from Sergeant Nkosi dated 11 March 2025, in which Nkosi sent Mnisi the names of two security companies — Ngaphesheya Security Services and El Shaddai Security Services — for tender TMPD 01-2024-25. Despite Mnisi telling Nkosi the tender had already closed and he could not check compliance, Nkosi sent follow-up reminders on 18 and 25 March. Mnisi replied “thanks my bro” to one of the reminders.
When pressed, Mnisi told the commission that Nkosi was “clearly of the mistaken view” that he could still influence the process. He insisted he made it clear the tender was closed and that he had no authority to intervene.
Denial of Any Link to Julius Malema
Mnisi was also asked about messages that allegedly referenced “CIC Juju” — a common shorthand for Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters. He responded unequivocally: “I don’t know Mr (Julius) Malema. I have never met him. I just know him to be the President of the EFF.”
The commission is examining whether political connections played any role in the tender process. Mnisi maintained that he had no personal or professional relationship with Malema or the EFF.
Context of the Madlanga Commission
The Madlanga Commission was established to investigate allegations of corruption, maladministration and abuse of power within the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department and related municipal structures. Several high-ranking officials have already testified, and the commission has uncovered evidence of possible tender irregularities, influence peddling and cover-ups.
Mnisi’s appearance is one of the most anticipated sessions so far. As Tshwane’s suspended CFO, his testimony touches on how public funds are managed at municipal level and whether political pressure or personal connections ever influence procurement processes.
Why This Matters for South Africans
Tenders worth billions of rand are awarded every year by municipalities across Gauteng. When questions arise about whether those processes are fair and transparent, ordinary citizens — who rely on these services — lose trust in local government. Mnisi’s testimony is not just about one man or one tender; it speaks to the larger fight against corruption in public institutions.
The commission’s work continues to expose how easily public money can be diverted when oversight is weak. South Africans watching these hearings want to see real accountability, not just headlines.
What Happens Next
Mnisi’s cross-examination is expected to continue in the coming days. The commission will also hear from other witnesses linked to the same tender and WhatsApp communications. The public is watching closely to see whether the testimony leads to concrete recommendations or further arrests.
For now, the focus remains on the evidence presented and whether the Madlanga Commission can deliver the kind of answers that rebuild public confidence in local governance.
