By Charles Molele
The DA in the Nelson Mandela Bay has filed a motion of no confidence against former mayor and current deputy mayor Gary van Niekerk.
The motion was submitted to the Speaker Eugene Johnson’s office on Friday and is set to be tabled at the council meeting scheduled for Thursday, 28 November.
Van Niekerk has been summoned by the Hawks to appear before the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on 12 December for fraud charges.
The charges stem from allegations that two years ago, while serving as council Speaker, Van Niekerk improperly engaged a law firm to resolve a legal dispute over his contested council position.
The legal bill reportedly exceeded R550,000, incurred during a factional dispute within the National Alliance, the party he leads.
DA Caucus Leader Rano Kayser said there was a need for swift, decisive action.
“The Democratic Alliance calls for decisive action against Deputy Mayor Gary van Niekerk, who faces serious allegations of cyber fraud and violations of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA). These allegations reflect an abuse of power and a disregard for ethical governance,” said Kayser.
Kayser said a recent multiparty municipal committee investigation found that Van Niekerk violated the Code of Conduct for Councillors and breached the MFMA.
The committee recommended his suspension or removal as a councillor.
The DA has accused Van Niekerk of misrepresenting his authority to engage service providers despite his council seat being declared vacant at the time.
This, if proven, contravenes laws prohibiting unauthorized individuals from interfering in municipal supply chain processes.
“We call on the Hawks to expedite their investigation and for the courts to act decisively. If found guilty, Van Niekerk must face accountability to restore integrity to his office,” Kayser said.
He added: “The people of Nelson Mandela Bay deserve better. Corruption is a scourge undermining our country. We are committed to ridding the metro of corrupt politicians and steering it back on track.”
Van Niekerk is expected to appear in the Gqeberha Commercial Crimes Court next month.
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