THE recent election of the Umbilo CPF chairperson remains a sensitive matter among some stakeholders and residents alike. While some welcomed the move, others indicated discontent, especially with the election process itself.

Pigeon Valley UIP, Cindy-May Wang
As chairperson of the Pigeon Valley Urban Improvement Precinct, my concerns relate primarily to the process followed during the Special General Meeting rather than the election outcome itself.

Firstly, we were concerned by the limited notice given for a meeting of this significance. PV UIP, despite representing a large number of residents within Sub-Forum 2, only became aware of the meeting shortly before it took place. We believe meetings of this nature should be communicated far more broadly to ensure meaningful participation by recognised community stakeholders.

Secondly, it was not clear how voting delegates were identified and verified in accordance with the CPF Constitution. Greater transparency around representation and voting would strengthen confidence in future processes.

Also read: Umbilo CPF leadership election in furore

We were also concerned by the manner in which allegations against the outgoing chair, Calvin Thomas, were presented. The meeting notice referred to concerns regarding transparency and unilateral decision-making, while speakers characterised his leadership as dictatorial and lacking communication with the Sub-Forums. However, no specific incidents or supporting evidence were presented that would have enabled attendees to objectively assess those claims, nor did there appear to be an independent process to facilitate or evaluate them.

My experience of working with Calvin Thomas over the past four years has been very different. I have found him to be ethical, transparent, collaborative and committed to improving community safety. Whether concerns relate to Mr Thomas or any other office bearer, I believe they should be dealt with through a fair, objective and evidence-based process.

Ultimately, I hope this becomes an opportunity to strengthen the Umbilo CPF through improved governance, transparency, communication and collaboration between all stakeholders.

Umbilo Business Forum, Doran Subiah
I write this response in my capacity as the chairperson of the Umbilo Business Association (UBA), having been present at the meeting in question.

Firstly, I wish to place on record the UBA’s sincere appreciation for the valuable input and years of dedicated service rendered by Mr. Calvin Thomas. He has been a faithful steward of Umbilo, and his contributions to the safety and vitality of our precinct are deeply respected. Our community stands on the shoulders of committed individuals like him.

However, I must express my profound disappointment with the outcome of the recent proceedings. It is my firm belief that the issues at hand could have been resolved in a far more constructive and amicable manner than was ultimately achieved.

More critically, I have serious reservations regarding the procedural integrity of the meeting. In my view, not all rules and processes mandated by the constitution governing the meeting were strictly followed. This is a matter of deep concern, as adherence to the CPF constitution is the bedrock of its governance and ensures fairness for all members.

Also read: Umbilo Business Forum bids farewell to business chairperson

Given the UBA’s need for the harmony between the community, SAPS, and local business, it is imperative that these internal processes are beyond reproach. Divisive outcomes achieved through questionable procedures do not serve the collective interests of Umbilo.
We remain steadfast in our mission to work collaboratively with all stakeholders for the betterment of Umbilo.

Glenwood UIP, Pravin Amar
In the execution of our duties as community volunteers, we should strive to resolve disputes constructively and privately. The CPFs are very useful structures in the fight against crime, which the Glenwood UIP is a proud part of. We are committed to contributing to any solution that benefits the Umbilo community.

Bulwer Safety and Urban Regeneration Forum, Heather Roos
I am part of Sector 1 CPF. I would not want to comment much because this is a very touchy subject at the moment. All I can say is that due process and the proper procedures took its course. I would like to wish the newly elected CPF chairperson all the best. I’m sure that he is going to do a brilliant job. I believe he has the ability to tackle the new role.

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Dalton Hostel, Steve Thusi
I speak as a resident of Sector 1, Dalton Hostel and PR councillor. What concerned was the short notice of the invitation to the SGM. At the meeting, we felt excluded because people were called out by names. We saw that as a process that does not include the community.

We have witnessed Calvin’s hard work, and we cannot spit on it. For the first time in history of Umbilo, the CPF won second place in crime reduction. He is the one chairperson who was bold to step foot in black areas ie Dalton, Sydney Road, and Williams Road. He was there to engage community leaders.

We didn’t understand the “step-aside”. So if Thomas committed a crime, or did something to harm the community, this must be made known, and find a way forward.
To the new chairperson, we wish him all the best. We respect the leadership, and we commit to working with him. We hope he can unite the community.

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