ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

31 MARCH 2025

 

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PLEDGES SWIFT AND DECISIVE ACTION FOLLOWING ENGAGEMENT WITH PUBLIC PROTECTOR

 

The Executive Committee this morning, 31 March affirmed its unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns raised by Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka during a special meeting at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

 

This important engagement forms part of the Public Protector's strategic stakeholder outreach which seeks to forge a robust collaborative framework to resolve outstanding matters and reinforce the memorandum of understanding between the Municipality and the Public Protector's Office.

 

Advocate Gcaleka presented an assessment that revealed that there are 29 formal complaints lodged against eThekwini Municipality, encompassing allegations of maladministration, undue delays, abuse of power, improper prejudice, and critical service delivery failures.

 

"Our Office has identified systemic issues that demand urgent attention. The complaints we have received reflect a profound erosion of public trust, stemming from persistent service delivery breakdowns and administrative shortcomings. This meeting is a critical step towards rectifying these issues through enhanced collaboration and stringent implementation of remedial actions,” said Advocate Gcaleka.

 

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba responded to the assessment by the Public Protector with a firm commitment to take decisive action.

 

"We welcome this proactive engagement and pledge our full cooperation. We will immediately convene a dedicated session to rigorously review the existing memorandum of understanding and will develop comprehensive action plans to address each identified issue. This process will ensure the Public Protector’s investigations are expedited and that tangible, measurable improvements are implemented without delay,” said Mayor Xaba.

 

EThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele reinforced this commitment saying the issues raised by the Public Protector have not been taken lightly.

 

“We are actively implementing strategic plans to rectify these deficiencies. Crucially, the proposed new Municipal organogram will establish a dedicated office to manage and promptly address all concerns raised by Chapter 9 institutions including the Human Rights Commission and the Special Investigating Unit. This will guarantee a streamlined, efficient, and transparent process for handling all complaints and inquiries. The Municipality acknowledges the urgent need to restore public confidence and will ensure that this engagement marks the beginning of a sustained and rigorous effort to deliver accountable, efficient, and effective governance," said Mbhele.

 

ENDS

 

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit.