Residents left frustrated and disappointed after Mayor misses meeting

Residents of Ward 37 and 39 were left frustrated and disillusioned after Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza failed to attend a crucial meeting scheduled for September 10, aimed at addressing ongoing energy and water issues in the areas.

The meeting, organised at the mayor’s initiative, was intended to provide updates and solutions to the challenges faced by residents.

Tensions flared when the gathering descended into chaos after MMCs Mzayifani Ngwenya (energy) and Sizakele Masuku (community safety) were unable to offer clear answers.

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The mayor’s unexplained absence only heightened the residents’ frustration.

“This meeting was supposed to be a platform to address our concerns,” said Albemarle resident Chiavon Naidoo.

“Instead, we were left confused and disappointed.”

The mayor’s no-show comes just after his 100-day speech, in which he emphasised that “the people come first” and committed to upholding the principles of the Freedom Charter.

However, many residents now feel that their voices have been disregarded.

Germiston City News questioned the mayor at a press briefing regarding the absence of Imbizo meetings in suburban areas, to which he cited logistical challenges in organising these events.

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Despite residents making the effort to attend the September 10 meeting, the mayor’s absence was glaring.

“This was our chance to engage with him directly, and he didn’t show up,” said resident Sipho Nkosi.

Further controversy arose when Masuku addressed the audience in her native language, sparking further unrest among predominantly English-speaking attendees.

Resident Jane de Wet criticised Masuku’s handling of the situation, stating that her emotional response and refusal to communicate effectively contributed to the meeting’s breakdown.

Ward 39 Clr Jean Ingram expressed deep concern over the mayor’s absence, stating, “The city is crumbling, and the executive mayor is missing in action. Residents feel insulted and let down.”

The mayor’s office has yet to respond to inquiries regarding his absence, leaving residents demanding leadership and transparency.

Many hope future meetings will proceed as planned and restore trust in the city’s leadership.