Unduly Elected Nquthu Local Municipality Mayor Refuses To Hand Over Mayoral Chain

SANDILE MOTHA

DELIVERY of basic services, including food relief programmes for residents hardest hit by COVID-19 has ground to a halt in the IFP-led Nquthu local municipality in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

At the heart of the furore is who should ascend the mayoral post which was left vacant after former mayor Siyabonga Kunene relinquished the position following a cloud hanging over him relating to murder.

Following his resignation, the council elected Nothile Zungu, the deputy mayor on interim basis to act until the position is filled. However contestation ensued between Zungu and Zama Shabalala, both IFP councillors over the mayoral chain.

“ There is no wording that says I must vacate my position in the  letter sent by Cogta MEC and addressed to the speaker. The letter only gives instructions that a council sitting to elect a mayor must be immediately constituted. I will therefore continue with my constitutional duties until