Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Hilton Maasdorp and Sesotho by Karabo Khakhau MP.
In a resounding display of unity, The Democratic Alliance (DA) and other opposition parties within the Dihlabeng Local Municipality Council recently staged a collective walkout during a council meeting.
This decisive action was prompted by serious concerns surrounding the conduct of the Speaker, who stands accused of violating the council’s code of conduct and displaying a clear bias in decision-making by not including all represented parties in the investigation of the Executive Mayor.
We firmly assert that every individual, regardless of their position, must dutifully adhere to the council’s established rules and regulations.
The DA has made persistent efforts to engage with the Speaker during the council meeting, repeatedly urging her to include representatives from all political parties in the investigation committee on the Dihlabeng Executive Mayor, Tseki Tseki, facing charges of defrauding R250 000 from the municipality in the form of back pay. Regrettably, these appeals were met with rejection.
The diverse communities we represent each have unique needs that must be addressed. We cannot tolerate a situation in which the Speaker, who is alleged to have breached our code of conduct, shields her colleagues at the expense of transparency and accountability.
In response to these developments, we are announcing our intent to initiate a Motion of No Confidence against the Executive Mayor and the Speaker soon. This action is deemed necessary to ensure that the council functions in the best interests of the Dihlabeng community and in accordance with established ethical standards. The DA remains unwavering in its commitment to upholding the principles of good governance and accountability within Dihlabeng.