eThekwini says Moriel contract remains in place after Sandton threats scandal - IOL

Former Director of Moriel Infrastructure Group Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyima.

The eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed it continues business with Moriel Infrastructure Group after its former director, Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyima, made headlines for threatening women in a Sandton restaurant. 

The municipality noted the public’s concerns regarding its contract with Moriel for the North Park Sewer Project following the viral video of the company’s former director. 

While it condemned gender-based violence and femicide, the municipality said this did not fall within its business with the company. 

“Criminal matters fall within the mandate of law enforcement agencies and the courts, and the municipality will not prejudge any individual or ongoing legal process. Should any matter arise that affects a service provider’s ability to fulfil its contractual obligations, the municipality will take the necessary action in accordance with the terms of the contract and applicable legislation,” it said. 

Moriel Infrastructure Group is contracted by eThekwini Water and Sanitation for the implementation of the North Park Sewer Reticulation, Tie-In and Associated Works Project. 

The value of the project is nearly R20 million. 

“The contract was awarded at a tender value of R16,105,433.75 (including VAT). In line with standard infrastructure project management practices, the total project authority includes provisions for price escalation and contingencies, bringing the total approved project value to R19,326,520.50 (including VAT),” the municipality said. 

The contract commenced in May 2025 and is scheduled for completion on November 1. The project is currently 95% complete.

“All municipal contracts are administered and monitored in accordance with their contractual conditions and the requirements of the Municipal Finance Management Act,” the municipality said. 

Moriel Infrastructure Group, where Mudzinganyama served as chairman and director, has severed ties with him, effective immediately. 

“Mr Mudzinganyama has been removed from both positions. He will no longer represent, speak for, or act on behalf of Moriel Infrastructure Group in any capacity,” it said in a statement. 

The group condemned the actions of their former executive. 

“The company recognises the seriousness of gender-based violence in South Africa and remains committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for its employees, stakeholders, and the wider community,” it said.

The company came under scrutiny following a viral video involving Mudzinganyima at Vlamo restaurant at Sandton Gate.

In the footage, Mudzinganyima is heard making threats against women, including statements such as, “I’ll murder you now and walk” and “I’ll put a bullet in all of you.” He is also heard claiming to be wealthy and saying that he could buy the restaurant.

The incident reportedly took place inside the restaurant’s ladies’ bathroom on Friday.

A criminal case was opened against Mudzinganyama.

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said Mudzinganyama was arrested on Sunday.

“An intimidation case was registered on September 19 at Randburg police station. The suspect was arrested on Sunday morning, September 20 and was released on warning to appear before Randburg court on October 1, 2026. Police investigations continue,” Nevhuhulwi said.