The Madlanga Commission heard direct claims on Wednesday and Thursday that the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and ActionSA tried to influence a major security contract in the City of Tshwane. Sergeant Fannie Nkosi, a Gauteng SAPS organised crime officer, told the inquiry how lists of preferred companies reached senior municipal officials.

These Tshwane security tender allegations point to possible political interference in the Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD) procurement process. The commission, which investigates criminality and political meddling in the justice system, has not yet made any findings.

Sergeant Nkosi Details Alleged Bidder Lists

Sergeant Fannie Nkosi testified that TMPD deputy chief Umashi Dlamini compiled a list of seven preferred companies. Dlamini allegedly received the list from the EFF, Nkosi told the commission.

Nkosi then passed the list to Tshwane chief financial officer Gareth Mnisi. He also submitted two extra companies for consideration, including one owned by his brother.

The multi-million-rand tender covers security services at city sites such as substations and reservoirs. Officials first advertised it in 2024 for a three-year period.

WhatsApp Messages Reveal Political Engagements

Evidence leaders presented WhatsApp exchanges during the hearing. In one message, Mnisi replied that he had met representatives from both the EFF and ActionSA about the tender.

He reportedly told Nkosi the request to submit only five names felt like “an insult”. Nkosi forwarded the original EFF-linked list plus his own suggestions to the CFO.

The messages also reference earlier discussions about two specific firms: Ngaphesheya Security (linked to Nkosi’s brother) and Elshadai Security Services.

Background on the Inquiry and Tshwane Contract

The Madlanga Commission is the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Alleged Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System. President Cyril Ramaphosa established it in 2025.

The inquiry now focuses on Tshwane after earlier hearings elsewhere. The TMPD security contract forms part of efforts to protect municipal infrastructure.

Tshwane operates under a coalition government that includes the ANC, EFF and ActionSA. Testimony suggests delays in the tender process may stem from internal discussions among coalition partners.

DA Tshwane caucus leader Cilliers Brink described the evidence as proof of political infighting over municipal contracts. He called for the city manager to investigate and for Mnisi to appear before the commission.

The EFF and ActionSA have not issued public statements on the claims.