Party leadership confirms that the municipality is set for a shake up.
AFTER much speculation about the possible axing of KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca, the ANC provincial leadership has confirmed that a series of changes are in the pipeline for the municipality north of Durban.
At a media briefing on Friday, ANC KwaZulu-Natal secretary Bheki Mtolo indicated that the mooted changes were in line with the preparations for the 2026 local government elections.
“During this period leading up to the local government elections, we have a responsibility to ensure stability in all ANC-led municipalities,” Mtolo said.
“We have agreed as the PEC to work hard to strengthen the ANC and restore its image and effectiveness as a vehicle for fundamental political, social and economic transformation. In particular, we have taken a decision to strengthen the KwaDukuza Local Municipality and caucus,” said Mtolo.
While some have suggested that any changes made would be the result a witch-hunt, Mtolo said they were meant to ensure unity, coherence and proper oversight over the administration.
“In this regard, we wish to assure the people of KwaDukuza and ILembe District Municipality in general that this reconfiguration is in the best interest of our communities. The process for the finalisation of this reconfiguration will be processed with the office of the secretary-general and once finalised the province will work with the regional executive committee of General Gizenga Mpanza for final modalities,” Mtolo said.
In July, the Sunday Tribune reported on plans to recall Nhaca and suspend municipal manager Nhlanhla Mdakane, apparently over their alleged dealings with counter-revolutionary forces which have resulted in the collapse of service delivery in KwaDukuza.
The article made reference to a leaked audio recording in which Ntuli threw a tantrum during a closed meeting with ANC-aligned KwaDukuza councillors on July 10, where he warned against councillors who were not following party orders.
Nhaca yesterday declined to comment.
On Friday, Mtolo gave a clear indication that the leadership was forging ahead with the planned changes, telling the media that the regional leadership of the General Gizenga Mpanza Region was now in the process of ensuring a smooth transition.
“We have further agreed on the importance of the reconfiguration of the municipal committees in order to sharpen and strengthen the service delivery machinery. As the governing party we undertake to ensure co-operation of all political parties in the interest of service delivery,” Mtolo said.
KwaDukuza, which is the main municipality under the iLembe District Municipality, has a R2.7 billion budget and is seen as a beacon for acquiring metro status.