The recent announcement of Chris Pappas as the DA’s premier candidate for KwaZulu-Natal ahead of the 2024 general elections has brought added scrutiny to the uMngeni Municipality’s funding allocations, specifically regarding Pappas’ fiancé’s NPO. There’s growing speculation on how access to the Provincial KwaZulu-Natal budget could potentially benefit JP Prinsloo’s NPO if Pappas is elected.
Pappas, currently serving as the Mayor of the uMngeni Municipality, has found himself amidst allegations of funding irregularities after it emerged that an NPO run by his fiancé, JP Prinsloo, received significant grants from the municipality. Prinsloo’s appointment as chairperson of uMngeni Tourism, an NPO backed by municipality funds, has raised eyebrows, especially considering the claims of disproportionate funding.
While Pappas acknowledged the R100,000 grant to uMngeni Tourism on Ukhozi FM, he emphasized that the NPO’s establishment predates his mayoral tenure. He vehemently denied allegations suggesting Prinsloo’s consultancy, Growth Spurt Consultancy (GSC), secured a tender from uMngeni Tourism.
The recent revelations become even more significant in the context of Pappas’ ambitions and the potential sway he might have over the Provincial KwaZulu-Natal budget. The public is now left questioning how this might influence allocations, particularly towards NPOs and organisations linked to political figures.
Former DA member, Sizwe Mchunu, has formally lodged a complaint with the Public Protector’s office, highlighting what he termed “spousal nepotism and corruption.” His letter brings attention to the unusual grant of R100,000 to uMngeni Tourism, contrasting it with the R10,000 monthly allocations to other top tourism entities in the municipality.
These claims not only cast a shadow over Pappas’ candidacy but also emphasize the broader concerns around political influence and its potential impact on fiscal decisions, especially for an already cash-strapped public. As the election nears, these allegations might play a significant role in shaping public perception and voting preferences.