SECUNDA – The supporters of the former municipal manager, Mr Mmele Mahlangu, vowed to fight until he is returned to his position.
They do not approve of the decision of the MEC of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs that Mr Zweli Shogwe, newly appointed municipal manager from Msikalikwa Municipality (Ermelo), swaps places with Mr Mahlangu.
The disgruntled residents, wearing ANC T shirts, disrupted the Govan Mbeki Municipal council meeting on Thursday, 31 March.
They stormed into the chambers minutes after Ms Lindi Masina, executive mayor, introduced Mr Shongwe.
They sang revolutionary songs and shouted: “We want Mmela, Mmela, Mmela!”
“We will fight until he comes back,” said a protester.
Municipal security guards failed to control the situation and Mr Cyril Gwiji, speaker’s, attempt to address the protesters did not yield results.
Mr Gwiji summoned policemen who were already patrolling the municipal offices outside.
They responded quickly and first spoke with Ms Masina, Mr Gwiji and other members of the mayoral committee before they addressed the protesters.
The protesters took their seats in the gallery and the council meeting proceeded.
Although Mr Shongwe looked worried and uncomfortable, he was well received by councillors.
The protesters threatened that if the decision is not revoke, they will embark on a blackout strike.
* The protesters marched to the municipal offices and handed over a memorandum to Mr Anthony Makhaye, chief whip of the ANC, the day before.
In the memorandum they accuse Ms Masina of greediness and corruption and said she must be investigated.
“We are aware that the mayor and her group wanted to remove Mr Mahlangu, because they want to appoint contractors who they are working with,” said Mr Vusi Khumalo, a protester.
“We demand that the premier remove them.
“Ms Masina allegedly lets a municipal house to someone, instead of staying in it.
“She should also be investigated regarding her relationship with a Chinese businessman.
“It is alleged that she gave stands to this man.”
