Suspended Tshwane CFO denies tender collusion despite WhatsApp evidence

Gareth Mnisi faced commissioners over messages linking him to suspended sergeant Fannie Nkosi and a R2.9-billion security contract.

Suspended City of Tshwane chief financial officer Gareth Mnisi denied allegations of tender manipulation and collusion when he testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry between 17 and 20 April 2026, despite WhatsApp evidence presented by investigators.¹²

Mnisi was placed on precautionary suspension on 15 April for three months pending an investigation into alleged tender rigging related to a R2.9-billion Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department security services contract.¹ The commission is examining allegations of criminality, political interference and corruption in metro police structures and procurement processes.²

Central to the inquiry are WhatsApp messages in which suspended Organised Crime Unit sergeant Fannie Nkosi sent Mnisi lists of companies bidding for the security tender.²⁵ Evidence presented to the commission indicated that two companies on those lists were subsequently awarded portions of the contract.² Mnisi acknowledged receiving the communications but rejected suggestions they constituted interference, stating Nkosi operated under a "mistaken belief" that he could assess compliance in the tender process.²

Mnisi described Nkosi as "like a brother" and characterised their relationship as a close personal friendship formed during a difficult period in his life rather than a professional association.¹² He maintained he neither influenced procurement outcomes nor received financial benefit from any of the three security companies under scrutiny: Gubis 85 Solutions, Triotic Protection Services and Ngaphesheya Security.³

Commission chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga challenged Mnisi's testimony, suggesting he was "actually cooperating with Sergeant Nkosi" when the names were provided.⁵ Commissioner Sesi Baloyi asked why Mnisi had done nothing about multiple warning signs of possible procurement interference, including that deputy mayor Eugene Modise had allegedly been approached for similar purposes and that suspended TMPD deputy chief Umashi Dlamini had allegedly distributed lists of companies for preferential treatment.⁷

Mnisi denied any dealings with Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema or his party regarding the tender.⁶ Five individuals have emerged as central figures in the alleged manipulation: Mnisi, Dlamini, suspended director of asset protection services Tshukudu Malatji, inspector Alfred Phiri, and Nkosi.¹ A replacement tender advertised in March 2026 remained unfinalised nearly a decade after the original process was initiated.¹