MPUMALANGA CABINET ENDORSES MUNICIPAL TAKE OVER
01 July 2009
Cabinet has learnt with sadness the reported loss of two lives that occurred in
the Mkhondo municipality following violent uprisings over the last week. Cabinet
expressed its condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the affected families and
community of Mkhondo.
In the same vein, Cabinet strongly condemned the reported incidents of violent
activities. That includes the burning of property, clinics, vandalism,
barricading of roads and threats to human lives. Of particular concern was the
burning down of three houses that belonged to local councilors. The provincial
government views these criminal incidents with serious light and will act
accordingly to bring perpetrators of such deeds to face the full text of the
law.
In line with the above, Cabinet called on law enforcement agencies to act
decisively when confronted with such situations.
Following an institution of an investigation and the subsequent acts of violence
that threatened the stability of the area and posed serious threats to human
lives, the Mpumalanga Executive Council has welcomed and endorsed the decision
to implement section 139 1. (b) of the South African constitution in the Mkhondo
According to Section139 1. (b), when a municipality cannot or fulfill an
executive obligation in terms of the legislation, the provincial government may
intervene by taking appropriate steps to ensure fulfillment of that obligation.
In line with the above, the province has decided to assume the responsibility on
overseeing the municipal administration and exercise all executive functions in
terms of Section 55 of the municipal structures .This follows a series of
interactions between the department of co operative governance and the
municipality over governance and administrative challenges
The MEC for Co operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mr Norman Mokoena,
has also announced the appointment of Mr. N.Khosa as the new administrator for
the municipality with immediate effect. The administrator is expected to
investigate all the allegations leveled against the council, oversee the
administration and restore the council activities back to normality and
functionality, particularly the acceleration of community services.
As required by law, the province will write a formal notice to the national
Minister of Co operative governance, Mr. Sicelo Shiceka, and members of the
National Council of Provinces within the stipulated 14 days.
Enquiries:
Ntime Skhosana
Cell: 0824966875
Tel: 0137662055
Issued by Office of the Premier