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The Democratic Alliance (DA) is concerned by the recent actions of the acting Municipal Manager at Maluti-A-Phofung Local Municipality. The irregular promotions and appointments, including that of the manager's spouse, led to an illegal strike and a halt in municipal services on 24 April.

Following discussions between municipal leadership and worker representatives, a decision was reached to reverse the appointments and recover the funds paid to these employees.

However, the letters sent by the acting MM to the affected employees deviate from the agreed-upon decision. The MM misleadingly states that their appointments are temporarily suspended until a new organisational structure is implemented, causing confusion and disrepute within the municipality. Furthermore, the MM encourages these employees to seek legal advice, exacerbating the situation.

The DA commends the establishment of a Section 32 committee, following our insistence, to investigate the conduct of the acting Municipal Manager. We believe her actions were unlawful and have significant financial implications for the municipality. It is disappointing that she will continue in her position pending the outcome of the investigation, as this raises concerns about accountability and transparency within the municipality.

Issued by Moshe Lefuma - DA Councillor Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality