Enraged community members took over the streets of Cottondale outside Acornhoek to protest against the alleged maladministration and nepotism by the councillor in the hiring processes for a project in the area.

Some of the protesters alleged that he had offered the tender to his friends, family members and other associates.

“The allegations against the councillor are untrue. The hiring processes and appointment of subcontractors began in June, when all community members in the ward, who have heavy machinery, were invited to apply. The selection process took place by the community submitting their details, and they were picked at random for consideration,” said Bushbuckridge Local Municipality’s spokesperson, Fhumulani Thovhakale.

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“I do not know how a friendship is measured, but the subcontractors were selected solely because they can provide a service to the effectiveness of the project not due to acquaintanceship to the councillor. The same with family members,” she added.

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Thovhakale said some community members do not attend community meetings, which may result in the dissemination of untrue details regarding such matters. She also condemned the burning of resources meant to uplift the community and indicated that a case of arson has been opened.