LIMPOPO – At 48, Myelani Chauke was sworn in as the new mayor of the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM) during a special council meeting held yesterday (May 8). His appointment places him among the youngest mayors in the municipality’s history.

Chauke, a former member of the mayoral committee, succeeds outgoing Mayor Freda Nkondo, who was recalled by the ANC in Limpopo. The reasons for her recall remain unclear, and she was absent from the meeting.

The newly elected mayor secured a decisive victory, receiving 36 votes from ANC councillors, compared to six votes from the EFF.

In his acceptance speech, Chauke emphasised the importance of collaboration, committing to strengthen relationships with traditional leaders, civil society, businesses, and youth formations.

“Development cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires unity of purpose and collective action. Let us move forward together, guided by transparency, integrity, and a shared vision for a better Vhembe,” he said.

Addressing service delivery, Chauke highlighted water provision as a critical challenge, particularly in rural communities. As the district’s water services authority, he warned against the vandalism of infrastructure, including illegal water connections, which hinder the delivery of clean water.

“Water remains a serious challenge in Vhembe. I am committed to addressing this, and we will act decisively against corruption wherever it arises,” he said.

He also pointed to reports of widespread illegal water connections in areas such as Mavambe village near Malamulele, calling for cooperation between communities and traditional leaders to curb the practice.

Chauke concluded by reaffirming his commitment to accountability and service delivery, signalling a leadership approach focused on unity and practical solutions.