The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has confirmed the deployment of eThekwini Municipality Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda to the National Council of Provinces.
Several political parties have called for Kaunda to step down, citing lack of service delivery and the deterioration of the former favourite tourist destination under his watch.
ANC CONFIRMS REDEPLOYMENT OF MXOLISI KAUNDA
Following the decision, the ANC said that as it ushers in a new era following the National and Provincial Elections, it identifies key areas that require urgent focus.
“We strongly believe that, with his experience, Mxolisi Kaunda has a vital role in the NCOP.
“We thank him for his dedication during the most difficult period, such as the ravaging floods, the outbreak of COVID-19, and many other challenges. Equally, we thank him for serving the people of eThekwini with dedication,” ANC KZN spokesperson Mafika Mndebele said.
Kaunda previously served as the MEC for Transport, Community, and Liaison until his redeployment to eThekwini Municipality in August 2019.
WHO WILL REPLACE THE FORMER MAYOR?
Additionally, Mndebele said that as they start a new chapter, they will extend a hand of cooperation to all the people of eThekwini across all political lines.
The spokesperson said leaders of different political parties are welcome to play an oversight role to ensure clean governance and speed in service delivery.
“Our view as the ANC is that real politics involving all political parties in the council should be about efforts to meet the needs of the people.
“Collectively, we must ensure that the new change post-election is felt positively by residents in informal settlements, townships, suburbs, business offices, industrial areas, and all corners of the city.
“Finally, we will announce as a matter of urgency after consultation with relevant structures and leaders who will replace Mxolisi Kaunda,” Mndebele said.
ACTIONSA SAYS IT IS NOT SURPRISED BY FORMER MAYOR’S REMOVAL
Meanwhile, ActionSA says the removal of Mxolisi Kaunda does not come as a surprise. The development highlights the dynamics of the DA and ANC coalition agreement dressed up as Government of National Unity (GNU).
ActionSA chairperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Zwakele Mncwango said the decision by the ANC is a mere stunt aimed at nursing the DA’s ego.
Mncwango accused the ANC of using Kaunda as a sacrificial lamb to pave the way for a closer relationship between the two parties.
“As ActionSA we firmly believe that merely removing Kaunda will not address the core issues plaguing eThekwini. The fundamental problem lies with the ANC’s governance. It is the ANC’s removal that will lead to meaningful change in the municipality,” Mncwango said.