Friday, 18 November 2011

IFP reiterates their dissatisfaction

IFP Constituency leaders expressed their disapproval of the appointment of the new Municipal Manager - Pastor Robert Mkhize (Constituency Secretary), Cllr Dumisani Nxumalo (Constituency Chairperson), Dr Godeshero Nkonzojakhe Dondo (Constituency spokesperson) and Thandansani Thusi (Constituency Deputy Chairperson)

The Inkatha Freedom Party has once more slammed the appointment of Dr Nhlanhla Sibeko as Municipal Manager for uMhlathuze. This comes following the IFP’s public opposition to the appointment in last week’s Council meeting, and uMhlathuze Mayor Elphas Mbatha’s threat of disciplinary action. IFP spokesperson, Dr Godeshero Nkonzojakhe Dondo detailed the complaint at a media briefing in Empangeni on Friday, claiming administrative faults were overlooked, and that the position of Municipal Manager should be re-opened for applications. ‘At Council, the Mayor declared the interview process for the position of Municipal Manager as confidential, and threatened Cllrs Dumisani Nxumalo and Beena Simandry with disciplinary action should they speak to the media.

‘However, he then himself announced the candidates, scoring points while the media were present,’ said Dondo. ‘We as the IFP are saying that this is in violation of the Labour Relations Act.’ The IFP also pointed out that according to the amended Municipal Systems Act, Municipal Managers require a minimum of five years municipal experience, which the IFP alleges Sibeko does not have. The uMhlathuze Municipality was not able to comment at time of going to press.