SEDIBENG.- The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng has urged the Chairperson of the Petitions Standing Committee (PSC), Vuyiswa Jentile, to summon Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Executive Mayor, Sipho Radebe to appear before the committee.

The DA said that Radebe together with ELM’s Municipal Manager, April Ntuli and other senior officials should appear before the committee after failing to do so for the third consecutive time, despite receiving formal invitations.

Leanne De Jager, DA Gauteng Member of the Petitions Standing Committee said that the purpose of the meeting is to address urgent petitions related to human settlement issues, particularly concerning the renewal of Evaton Township.

“According to Rule 148(8) of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) Standing Rules, the Chairperson has the authority to call for evidence and summon individuals to appear before the committee. Therefore, the DA urges the Chairperson to exercise the powers granted to her according to the rules.”

De Jager said that Radebe’s, and his officials’ persisting absenteeism represents a failure to uphold their constitutional obligations to listen and respond to the grievances of the people.

“It further violates the principles of cooperative governance and shows a lack of respect for legislative oversight. If the Emfuleni representatives fail to appear before the Committee again, they must be held in contempt of the GPL and be held accountable for their actions.”