The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) in the Ekurhuleni Metro has opposed a proposed retrospective adjustment to the conditions of service for municipal and senior managers, commonly referred to as Section 56 managers.
According to the party, sustained pressure from the Freedom Front Plus resulted in the proposal being rejected.
VF Plus councillor in the council, Jennifer Glover, said that in terms of the Municipal Systems Amendment Act of 2022, senior managers who report directly to the municipal manager will in future be appointed on a permanent basis.
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“This replaces the previous system of five-year fixed-term contracts, with the aim of promoting greater administrative continuity and reducing political interference,” said Glover.
She emphasised, however, that existing fixed-term contracts should not be retrospectively converted into permanent appointments.
“These posts were lawfully advertised and accepted as fixed-term agreements. Any attempt to unilaterally change this raises serious concerns about fairness, sound management and legal certainty,” she said.
Glover added that there is no clear legislative basis for the automatic and immediate conversion of existing contracts.
“The current agreements are legally binding and should be honoured to allow employees to complete their agreed-upon terms.
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Once these have lapsed, the posts may be advertised and filled as permanent positions in line with the new legal requirements, without undermining legal certainty,” she said.
She further stressed the importance of maintaining accountability.
“Thorough performance evaluation and accountability should remain central to the permanent appointment of all senior managers,” Glover added.
Glover said the Freedom Front Plus remains committed to transparent and lawful governance, adding that it is in the best interest of both the metro and its employees to ensure appointments are based on merit and proper legal processes.
Kempton Express approached the City of Ekurhuleni for comment. However, no response had been received at the time of publication.
