The meetings were preceded by a statement by the DA late last night, calling on Advocate Khenisa to agree to voluntary leave for the remainder of his contract which only expires in October.

Apart from paying Advocate Khenisa his salary and benefits during the requested eight month leave period, an acting municipal manager will have to be elected and paid to the incumbent.

The current CFO, Mr Mothiba Mogofe would most probably act in this capacity if Advocate Khenisa agrees to go on voluntary leave.

The DA concedes that there’s no solid ground for the request, acknowledging that Advocate Khenisa had done nothing wrong, and that no proof has thus far been presented on allegations of corruption against him, which could warrant a council sanctioned independent investigations.

After an hours long meeting with political parties yesterday, the striking employees said they refuse to return to work if Advocate Khenisa is there.

They, however, expressed satisfaction with the steps the municipality is taking to address employment disparities.

The strike meanwhile continues.

DA Caucus Whip Palesa Mobango told www.mobserver.co.za that she’s not received any confirmation of a scheduled meeting since the council whips called for one yesterday.

Meanwhile there’s still no official word from either the mayor’s office, nor Advocate Khenisa’s, on how management is dealing with the spiralling outfall with employees.

The DA is of the opinion that the relationship between Advocate Khenisa’s office and municipal employees has deteriorated to such an extent that its irreparable.