The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Western Cape welcomes the findings of the recent investigation into the conduct of Knysna’s municipal leadership, according to Dave Bryant, DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning.
The report, commissioned by Western Cape Local Government Minister Anton Bredell, has revealed significant breaches of the code of conduct by key officials, including Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa, Deputy Mayor Alberto Marbi, and Speaker Mncedisi Skosana.
“The investigation, prompted by mounting concerns over allegations of misconduct and maladministration within the Knysna Municipality,” Bryant said in a media statement, “has confirmed reports of irregular decision-making, poor governance, and a collapse in service delivery.”
He added: “Independent investigators Advocate Trisha Sarkas and Deirdré Viljoen found that municipal leadership provided false evidence under oath, constituting fraud and a failure in their ethical and legal responsibilities.”
“In light of these damning findings, the DA Western Cape calls for the immediate resignation of Mayor Tsengwa, Deputy Mayor Marbi, and Speaker Skosana. Their continued tenure poses a serious risk to council’s proper functioning and integrity, eroding public trust.”
Bryant also expressed support for the committee’s recommendation of financial sanctions against implicated officials and councillors, stressing the importance of enforcing accountability measures to restore confidence in local governance.
“The coalition of ANC/EFF/PA/PBI corruption in Knysna has resulted in a complete breakdown of services, leaving residents to bear the consequences of maladministration and mismanagement,” he remarked.
“This investigation validates what residents have long known: the coalition prioritizes self-interest over service delivery.”
“Knysna deserves better,” said Bryant.
“Residents require a DA government capable of reinstating service delivery, ensuring ethical governance, and fostering community recovery. The DA remains steadfast in upholding transparency, integrity, and accountability across all government levels. We will closely monitor developments to ensure swift implementation of necessary corrective actions.”
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