The Executive Mayor of Emalahleni has tested positive for COVID-19.

Cllr Linah Malatjie said she underwent tests after being exposed to the virus on a few occasions.

“I took that decision as a necessary precaution to protect members of the public who frequent my office, colleagues, and municipal employees in general,” she said.
The mayor went into self-isolation.

“I, therefore, wish to assure members of the public that council’s work will proceed as planned, and all municipal services will also resume as planned on Monday, July 20.”

She assured that the work of the local Covid-19 Command Council will continue as well.

“I will be failing in my civic duties as the first citizen of Emalahleni Local Municipality, if I don’t urge, warn, and appeal to all our citizens that COVID-19 is real and dangerous.”

Cllr Malatjie asked everyone to take personal responsibility and follow the basic preventative hygiene measures.
“Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. Wearing your mask and keeping the required physical distancing cannot be overemphasised. Whilst we understand that it is difficult to attain zero risk we have a collective responsibility to give it our best to fight Coronavirus with the last drop of our blood consolidated energies and efforts.

“May the grace of the Good Lord be upon you, stay blessed, stay at home, stay safe.”

It should be noted that the council has been conducting virtual meetings already over the last few weeks.