Mr Apiwe Mkhangelwa Takes Over as Acting Municipal Manager

Komani, Eastern Cape – The Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality has appointed Mr Apiwe Mkhangelwa as Acting Municipal Manager for a three‑month period, from 1 March to 31 May 2026, following the resignation of Ms Ayakha Ntengenyane.

The appointment comes amid worsening service delivery failures that residents say have made life increasingly difficult in Komani.

Frequent electricity outages continue to disrupt homes and businesses, while potholes cover nearly every road, forcing drivers to navigate treacherous streets daily. Adding to the frustration, rubbish piles up along the streets, creating unhygienic conditions and a visible sign of municipal neglect.

Despite his background as the municipality’s Chief Operations Officer, Mr Mkhangelwa now faces the daunting task of managing a council that has struggled to address basic services for years.

Critics say his appointment does little to reassure residents, who are more concerned with clean streets, reliable electricity, and properly maintained roads than with executive titles or degrees.

Local communities are voicing growing anger, pointing out that leadership changes at the top have yet to translate into real improvements on the ground.

As the municipality continues to grapple with infrastructure decay, overflowing rubbish, and constant power interruptions, residents warn that confidence in council leadership is at an all-time low — and urgent action is needed.