MBOMBELA – Disciplinary action is ongoing against municipal community services employees. Sources say the allegations are being investigated by the municipality.
In total 35 firefighters and traffic officials were placed on suspension following protest action they embarked upon in October. The suspensions are valid for three months. The protests centred on overtime payments as well as the appointment of 24 special security officers in November, which the employees opposed. Due to the appointments a charge of corruption was laid against the present municipal manager
Mr Noko Seanego. Police say their investigation into the claims was again referred to the prosecuting authority for a decision on December 22.
The EFF’s Mr Cyril Chuene, who led the charge in requesting the office of the Public Protector to investigate the matter, says he wants the investigation to be expedited.
Subsequently Mr Werner le Grange, chief whip of the DA in Mbombela Local Municipality, requested the speaker
Ms Jesta Sidell to set up a special meeting with executive mayor Mr Sibusiso Mathonsi to discuss allegations of political influence in the appointments. He says they have received no response to their request for clarity on the interview-and-appointment process, what the officers’ duties are, nor confirmation of the security clearance conducted on the officials.
