Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, covering the historically significant town of Pilgrim's Rest in Mpumalanga, has been systematically looted. Approximately R300 million has been reported stolen or wasted through fraudulent contracts, ghost workers, and irregular procurement. The municipality has received eight or more consecutive disclaimer audit opinions — the longest sustained streak of financial dysfunction in Mpumalanga.
Among the AG's findings: the municipality paid for the construction of a road that does not exist. The contract was awarded, money was paid, but no road was built. This is not a case of shoddy workmanship or cost overruns — it is payment for fiction.
Pilgrim's Rest, a declared national heritage site and tourist destination, has fallen into complete disrepair under the municipality's neglect. Historic buildings are crumbling. Roads within the village are pitted and dangerous. Water supply is erratic. The town that once drew visitors from across the world is now a monument to municipal failure.
Eight consecutive disclaimers means the AG has been unable to express an opinion on the municipality's finances for eight straight years. Yet the municipality continues to operate, receive national allocations, and pay salaries to the officials presiding over its destruction. No meaningful intervention has been implemented.