ELM Council is investigating VF plus Councillor Gerda Senekal for alleged involvement and support of a rates and taxes boycott against the municipality.

Support for such a rates and taxes boycott is highly illegal as Councillors of all parties must at all times act in the best interests of the municipality and in such a way that the integrity of the institution is not compromised.

If found guilty of such misconduct, Councillors face a fine or suspension.

Senekal did not respond to requests for comment by publication time.

Senekal has now been referred to the council Ethics Committee for investigation on instructions of Council Speaker Councillor Sibongile Soxuza, ELM spokesperson Makhosonke Sangweni has confirmed.

“The Speakers Office has confirmed the matter concerning Clr Senekal to the Ethics Committee for investigation and decision,” said Sangweni.

Three organizations recently announced a rates and taxes boycott of ELM – the Vereeniging Business Cooperation (VBC), the Golden Triangle Chamber of Commerce (GTCoC) and the Emfuleni Ratepayers Association (Erpa)

However, many businesses have flocked to support ELM through joining the Vaal Business Forum (VBF) to participate with ELM in practical service delivery projects.

ELM has said a boycott will reduce funds available for service delivery.