The return of the mayor of Steve Tshwete Municipality in Mpumalanga, Mhlonishwa Masilela, was not a welcome one earlier today.

Masilela had his first work day since the September 1 appointment of the new municipal manager, Mandla Mnguni.

Mnguni was appointed after municipal workers embarked on a strike, demanding the previous municipal manager, Bheki Khenisa, must resign.

Masilela’s return was, however, short as employees cheered for him to leave the municipal offices.

Sources confirmed that employees have not embarked on a strike, but rather that they refuse to work if Masilela is inside the building.

Employees demand the resignation of Masilela and former acting municipal manager Thokozile Zulu, who is still employed in an executive director’s position.

@middelburgobserver

Mayor Masilela frogmarched from Municipality

♬ original sound – MiddelburgObserver

Masilela was escorted from the civic centre under the protection of bodyguards while cheering employees lined the halls.

Zulu has not returned to work and is currently working remotely.

The EFF has already indicated that the party will, at the next council sitting, table a motion of no confidence in Mayor Masilela.

Employees say that as long as Masilela and Zulu are not in the office, work will continue as normal, pending the motion of no confidence and the possible suspension of Zulu.