Councillor resigns but still receives a salary every month
AN ANC ward councillor who resigned as ward councilor and branch chairperson in February continues to receive his salary from the Greater Tzaneen Municipality.
Alex Matlala
LIMPOPO – AN ANC ward councillor who resigned as ward councilor and branch chairperson in February continues to receive his salary from the Greater Tzaneen Municipality.
Don Hlangweni, a Ward 24 councillor in Maribeni village allegedly forwarded his resignation letter to municipal heads and to the party’s regional headquarters in Tzaneen.
His resignation came soon after the municipality failed to respond to the water, roads and electricity demands of the ward, saying he was “tired of the empty promises made by government”.
At the time, aggrieved residents marched naked to the municipal offices demanding basic services.
Greater Tzaneen mayor, Dikeledi Mmetle said Hlangweni’s resignation was news to her.
“As far as I am concerned, Hlangweni is still a councillor. I have not seen any resignation letter from him and I therefore believe he still works with me,” she said. But ANC secretary in Mopani, Baisekopo Makamu said he was aware that Hlangweni had resigned. He said Hlangweni handed over his resignation letter last year, citing challenges in his ward that were affecting his health.
“But we can assure you that the ANC is working on the matter and by-elections will be conducted soon for his replacement,” said Makamu.
“The matter is at the top of the list of matters that need urgent attention. We are currently dealing with the matter and we believe he will be replaced as a matter of urgency.
His day to day duties are being performed by a public relations councillor and the conglomeration of members of his executive committee.”
The DA in Limpopo was perturbed about the whole issue.
DA Limpopo leader, Jacques Smalle said the municipality must take the bull by its horns and take action. He said it was tantamount to theft to accept a salary which you knew you did not work for.
“Ironically, this wayward behavior of the councillor takes place in full view of the municipal manager, the chief finance officer and the mayor. These are the monies of the public purse and should be recouped quickly. If the municipality fails to take action, we will open a criminal case against the councillor,” said Smalle.
Hlangweni refused to comment on the issue, saying he had just lost his sister.
“I am not in a position to comment. I am arranging my sister’s funeral and can you please respect that?”asked Hlangweni.
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