Public outrage is mounting after KwaDukuza municipality abruptly cancelled three mayoral imbizos without notice, fuelling accusations of neglect and disrespect toward disadvantaged communities.

The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers’ Association (Docrra), KwaDukuza Organised Residents Alliance (Kora) and KwaDukuza Business Forum (KBF) condemned the last-minute cancellations in Nkobongo, Shayamoya and Shakaskraal. They said no official notice was issued, despite the events being scheduled weeks in advance and already postponed once.

This follows the failure of mayor Ali Ngidi and municipal manager Nhlanhla Mdakane to attend a previous imbizo at Umhlali Preparatory School last month.

KBF chairman and Docrra executive committee member, Thami Chiliza, said communities are being sidelined.

“We mobilised residents for weeks, only to show up and find nothing. The lack of communication is unacceptable, and frustrations are reaching boiling point,” he said.

“Residents of Shayamoya and Nkobongo are not being given the opportunity to voice their concerns. Some have even submitted petitions to KDM about issues with unaccountable councillors.”

The matter is currently under review by COGTA.

Docrra chairperson Deon Viljoen criticised the municipality for poor planning and lack of transparency.

“These imbizos were already postponed from their original dates of May 3, 9 and 10. Cancelling them again – less than 24 hours beforehand – shows complete disregard for the communities involved,” said Viljoen.

He questioned the mayor’s priorities.

“Why is the mayor present at protests in Stanger but absent from imbizos in disadvantaged areas? It highlights this administration’s inability to communicate and its lack of seriousness.”
KBF secretary Philani Pityo reminded the municipality of its legal obligations.

“KDM is required by law to facilitate public participation at these forums, including questions and comments on the budget before it is approved,” he said.

Docrra, Kora and KBF say the municipality must urgently restore trust by rescheduling the imbizos and ensuring transparent communication.

KwaDukuza municipality could not be reached for comment.

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