IEC explains why it splurged R1.5 million on a five-star hotel despite cash woes
The Star has reported that the The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) forked out R1.5 million on a four-day workshop at a five-star hotel and spa, despite its financial woes.
The “strategic workshop” was held at Africa Pride Mount Grace Country House and Spa, a five-star hotel nestled in the Magaliesberg where rates range from R1,862 – R4,100 per night.
According to The Star, approximately 120 IEC delegates attended the workshop, with many having to catch flights to Joburg before moving on to the hotel in the North West.
It reported that the commission spent R1.2 million on room bookings alone, citing a source within the IEC.
IEC spokesperson Marco Granelli told the paper that the commission selected the five-star hotel because they had negotiated a package deal, adding that the rate was in line with Treasury regulations.
Granelli said that IEC chief executive Mosotho Moepya had wanted to postpone the workshop due to ‘cash-flow problems’.
“Unfortunately, a postponement was not possible without considering cost implications including a 100% cancellation fee. The CEO therefore decided that the workshop should proceed as scheduled to avoid fruitless expenditure,” he said.
The IEC reportedly overspent by R250 million in the municipal elections in August.
Read: Defence Force chief blows R500,000 on a trip to Cuba with his wife
Loading ...