Ngcobo unrest: council to consider municipal manager’s suspension

Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality says its leadership has proposed placing the Municipal Manager on precautionary suspension pending an investigation into allegations raised amid ongoing unrest in Ngcobo.

The proposal was presented during an urgent stakeholder engagement held on Monday as part of efforts to address community concerns and restore stability in the area.

The municipality stressed that a precautionary suspension would not amount to a finding of wrongdoing or guilt, but would be an administrative measure intended to allow an investigation to proceed without possible interference.

A Special Council Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 18 August, where councillors will consider the proposed suspension and related matters. Council will also consider appointing an Acting Municipal Manager in line with the relevant legal and governance framework.

The engagement brought together municipal leaders, councillors, traditional leaders, government departments, law enforcement agencies, business representatives, civil society and other stakeholders. The Executive Mayor of Chris Hani District Municipality and a Member of the Provincial Legislature were also present.

Transport-related concerns were also discussed, with the municipality saying buses and public transport operators must comply with the conditions of their operating permits.

The meeting is expected to reconvene on Tuesday with representatives from the transport and taxi industry, along with their legal teams, to address outstanding issues and seek a way forward.

Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality said it remains committed to constructive dialogue and resolving matters within the applicable legal and regulatory framework.