Umdoni Municipality’s Council sat for a special council meeting today (August 20) in an effort to restore stability after the removal of acting municipal manager DD Naidoo.

Since Naidoo was removed from his role on August 5, Umdoni workers, residents and ratepayers were left with unanswered questions as to why this decision was made and that he be reinstated.

While Council attended the meeting inside the municipality, workers and concerned residents and ratepayers protested together for Naidoo’s reinstatement, and for the mayor, deputy mayor and speaker to step down from their roles.

The protesters were then met by a group of ANC supporters protesting against Naidoo’s reinstatement and carrying placcards with the words “Hands off Umdoni; Hands off mayor, deputy mayor and speaker; Hands off ANC councillors”.

Law enforcement and Public Order Policing were on the scene to prevent tensions from rising between both groups.

After the meeting, the Umdoni Council met with all present and said they have resolved to rescind the previous (irregular) resolution to dismiss Naidoo as the acting municipal manager. Council therefore resolved to reinstate Naidoo with immediate effect.

This brought about much excitement to the residents and workers who have committed to returning to work immediately.

Many of the residents placed on record that their support for Naidoo comes after they’ve witnessed him help bring stability to Umdoni, maintained open lines of communication with community organisations and residents and played a significant role in restoring confidence between the municipality and its ratepayers.

It was also mentioned that the mayor, deputy mayor and speaker did not attend the special council meeting.

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