ETHEKWINI'S new mayor yesterday "declared war" against corrupt councillors and officials.

"I declare war against fraud, corruption and maladministration, and we will take action against councillors and officials who are found to be doing business with the municipality," James Nxumalo said at the Durban City Hall yesterday afternoon after being sworn in as the municipality's new mayor.

A forensic firm was appointed earlier this year to probe fraud, corruption and maladministration allegations in the municipality.

Auditor-General Terrence Nombembe's 2009-10 report indicated that R532million had been spent irregularly in the municipality.

Nxumalo said strict measures would be put in place to ensure departments adhered to supply chain management processes. The municipality would also not allow officials to flout tender procedures.

The swearing in of the new council was attended by KwaZulu-Natal cooperative governance MEC Nomusa Dube and economic development MEC Mike Mabuyakhulu.

Former deputy mayor Logie Naidoo was voted the new speaker. Executive committee member Nomvuzo Shabalala would fill the vacancy he left.