Durban - The eThekwini Municipality would spend R1.5 million on airtime vouchers in the next two years, according to a report from the city’s supply chain management unit.
The report, tabled before the executive committee, gave no indication of intended recipients, but municipal spokesman Thabo Mofokeng said the airtime was for field workers.
“It is requested through our stores, as it is a stock item. There are strict controls, including a requisition process, that is authorised by the relevant unit before it is approved.”
The executive committee was told the bulk purchase would be procured through section 36 legislation, bypassing normal tender protocols.
According to the report, a tender was awarded in November, but the service provider, who was unable to deliver, had withdrawn from the contract.
Contacted for comment, opposition parties, could not say who the airtime was for.
DA councillor Heinz de Boer said he would find out.
“It could be for drivers or employees who don’t get a cellphone allowance,” he said.
Minority Front councillor Patrick Pillay and the National Freedom Party’s Shaik Emam said the matter was not urgent and a new tender should be advertised.
The Mercury