Swellendam Municipality Executive Mayor Francois Du Rand was today (April 30) cleared by council of allegations that he attempted to bribe ANC Councillor Donovan Julius.
The allegation was made that Du Rand attempted to bribe Councillor Julius to resign as a councillor of the Swellendam Municipality and as a member of the ANC, and to join the Democratic Alliance (DA) in exchange for certain financial benefits.
It was reported that Du Rand had offered Julius R2-million to make the switch.
Julius has since reliably informed News62 that he would never jump ship from the ANC.
This allegation was received by council on 19 August 2024. In the final report compiled by Swellendam Speaker alderman Du Toit Loubser, it stated that although Advocate Vermaak’s interim report initially indicated that certain procedural requirements were not fully met, the subsequent submission of an affidavit by Du Rand had helped to address those concerns.
“In accordance with the Standing Rules and Procedures relating to Disciplinary Matters against Councillors (Council Resolution A98 of 29 June 2017), any complaint against a councillor must be referred to an initiator within thirty (30) days of the Speaker’s decision,” Loubser’s report said.
“The investigation into the allegation that Councillor HF du Rand attempted to bribe
Councillor Donovan Julius must be carefully assessed in light of both the ethical
obligations outlined in the Code of Conduct for Councillors (as stipulated in Schedule 7 of the Local Government Municipal Structures Act, Act 117 of 1998 as amended) and the principles of procedural fairness.
“The Code of Conduct requires councillors to act in good faith, honestly, and transparently, thereby safeguarding the credibility and integrity of the municipality.
“Although the allegation of bribery is serious, it is noteworthy that Councillor du Rand has categorically denied offering any form of financial inducement or bribe. His sworn affidavit confirms that the discussions with Councillor Donovan Julius were limited solely to addressing compensation for the period during which income would have been affected.”
“Importantly, these deliberations were conducted privately and did not adversely affect the public image of the council.”
“Furthermore, it is pertinent to recognise that private negotiations and party-switching discussions are not uncommon in South African politics. While such practices are regularly conducted behind closed doors, they must nevertheless adhere strictly to ethical standards to ensure public trust is not compromised.”
“Based on the available evidence and his formal response—appears to be consistent with his ethical obligations under the Code.”
“From a procedural fairness perspective, the principles of natural justice, including the audi alteram partem rule, have been upheld by affording Councillor du Rand the
opportunity to respond fully to the allegations via his sworn affidavit.:
