EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda has assured the people of eThekwini that the process of appointing the new City Manager is well on track and it is being handled with the sensitivity and care it requires.

 

Speaking at the Executive Committee meeting yesterday, 22 March, Mayor Kaunda said he received correspondence from the Democratic Alliance caucus leader, Councillor Nicole Graham who is alleging that there was political interference in the process leading up to the appointment of the City Manager. 

 

The Mayor has reiterated that the ANC has no role in the appointment of city managers. The only time the ANC ever gets involved in the filling of Municipal positions is when it comes to the appointment of Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Speakers and ordinary councillors.

 

“As things stand, the panel has not yet concluded the process. Therefore, we would like to urge everyone to respect the process which is being conducted by a legitimate panel. After all the processes have unfolded, a report will be presented to the Executive Committee for its consideration and the council,” said Mayor Kaunda.

 

In his opening remarks, Mayor Kaunda also congratulated the Municipality for scooping six awards at the Premier’s Service Excellence Awards on 18 March in recognition of their good work and efforts. 

The Sizakala Customer Care received a Certificate of Recommendation in the Best Batho Pele Team and eThekwini District Command Council was awarded gold for Best District Command Council of the year for 2020/21.

 

The Municipality also won gold in the Best COVID-19 Team during national lockdown and silver for Best Communication Team during lockdown.

 

EThekwini official, Sagren Moodley received a Certificate of Commendation in the Best Public Service Innovator for 2020/21. Lastly, ward 20 was awarded silver in the Most Functional War Room category.

 

“We highlight these achievements because we understand that while we grapple with some of the challenges, there are men and women in the Municipality who work tirelessly to make a meaningful contribution towards a better life for all," added Mayor Kaunda. 

 

ENDS

 

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit