The Eastern Cape government has given itself one calendar month to get to the bottom of allegations of wrongdoing involving the municipal manager of Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality.
The deadline follows prolonged protests and shutdowns in Ngcobo, with residents raising concerns about the municipal manager and ongoing disputes involving municipal workers.
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Premier Oscar Mabuyane said the investigation must establish the facts while the government works to restore normalcy and protect residents from further disruptions.
Ngcobo has been gripped by protest action over grievances involving the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality, with the disruptions affecting schools, workplaces and businesses.
The provincial government has now stepped in, with Mabuyane meeting the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Community Safety, the mayors of Dr AB Xuma and Chris Hani District Municipality and the South African Police Service (SAPS)’s leadership.
Following the meeting, Mabuyane directed the MEC for COGTA to establish the facts surrounding the allegations against the municipal manager and engage with affected workers.
The premier’s spokesperson, Sonwabo Mbananga, said, “A report on these allegations must be made available within one calendar month. Government wants these matters dealt with transparently.”
Mabuyane has also directed that existing investigation reports into alleged wrongdoing at Dr AB Xuma Municipality be made public, subject to legal requirements.
However, while the government said legitimate grievances must be heard, it is also warning that protests cannot come at the expense of other residents.
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Mongezi Koko
www.ewn.co.za