Is this an indication of dictatorship?

Madam – It is noted in the Newcastle Advertiser of November 22 that the Newcastle mayor is closing all avenues of communication unless passed by him.

This is an indication of dictatorship on his part, showing no confidence in senior management even though the municipal manager is the accountable officer and as such also will be held accountable for any comments that the mayor may make.

This mayor must remember that it was through his doing that the municipal manager’s contract was renewed for a further five years and he determined the huge salary package of Mr Masange.

The statement by the mayor being appointed by the community is not true. He was not elected by the community but was made a councillor and mayor by his own political party.

The municipal manager on the other hand who is supposed to be well qualified for this position, also has to rely on his contract being renewed every five years by politicians, and following your report, there seems to be little chance that the municipal manager will be appointed for another term.

JJJ

Response from Mayor, Afzul Rehman:

This letter has been answered in my previous response. The confidence of the council in the municipal manager has not diminished and he

will still be the person who finalises all responses to the media and refers to political component for additions if necessary.