City fires head of eThekwini Parks and Recreation department
Thembinkosi Ngcobo said he found out he was dismissed when a journalist contacted him for a comment.
FORMER eThekwini Municipality head of Parks and Recreation, Thembinkosi Ngcobo, has confirmed the news that he was dismissed by the City on Monday.
He said he heard about his dismissal from one of the media houses. The City parted ways with Ngcobo after he was found guilty of misconduct.
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Ngcobo was being investigated for failing to report corruption transactions allegedly made by the staff in his office. His matter was heard in the SA Local Bargaining Council in April and May.
“Indeed I have been dismissed, but for now I can’t really comment because I have just taken the letter to my lawyers and waiting for them to advise me about the way forward. After their advice, then I will issue a statement,” said Ngcobo.
City’s spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, confirmed that Ngcobo has been dismissed.
“The City can confirm that indeed the employee concerned has been dismissed, according to a verdict from the Bargaining Council. The employee had referred the matter to the Bargaining Council following an internal disciplinary hearing conducted by the municipality. The Bargaining Council then upheld the decision of the municipality. The City is currently studying the verdict,” said Mayisela.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance in eThekwini has welcomed Ngcobo’s dismissal and said it was long overdue.
In a statement, Councillor Mmabatho Tembe accused the African National Congress of allowing Ngcobo to destroy the unit he was heading.
She said: “What eThekwini and residents now urgently need is a turnaround for this department. Trees need to be pruned, grass needs to be cut and the swimming pools need to be fixed.”
