In a move that has sparked significant controversy, Elsie Kekana has been appointed as the technical director of the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality (TCLM) during the last council meeting on September 30.
This despite several objections by the opposition parties and some residents in the gallery. Those who objected to her appointment shared the parties in question’s views in that Kekana reportedly does not have the necessary qualifications for this post.
Critics, including DA councillor, Spiros Couvaras, are questioning the decision, arguing that Kekana lacks the necessary skills and background to effectively fulfil the responsibilities of the position.
Couvaras has taken action by writing a formal letter to the Mpumalanga premier, Mandla Ndlovu, urging him to reconsider the appointment.
In his letter, Couvaras highlights the importance of having qualified individuals in leadership roles, particularly in a municipality that relies on technical expertise for its development projects and infrastructure management.
He argues that the appointment of an unqualified candidate could hinder progress and undermine the effectiveness of local governance. The letter, of which Steelburger/Lydenburg News has a copy, asks Ndlovu to intervene in the appointment of the TCLM’s technical director. It reads: “Item A 126/2024 refers. A vote was taken and Kekana was appointed.
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Our concerns are that Kekana does not meet the minimum requirements as specified in the item and advertised.
The advert clearly states that the candidate should at least have a Bachelor of Science in Engineering or an equivalent with a minimum of five years at middle management level and engineering management experience.
The applicant should also be in the possession of a certificate of competency as required in terms of the General Machinery Regulation of 1988.”
Couvaras wrote that Kekana falls short on her minimum experience and the minimum tertiary requirements.
“In a municipality such as ours, there is no time for getting to know and learn what is what and where. The municipality needs a person who knows the systems, the area and needs of the community.”
He further stated that with these few discrepancies outlined, he brings attention to the Government Gazette 46740 and Section 56 of the Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000, which states: A decision to appoint a person and any contract concluded between the municipal council and that person in consequence of the decision is null and void if the person appointed does not have the prescribed skills, expertise, competencies or qualifications.
Couvaras said Kekana’s appointment comes at a time when the TCLM is facing numerous challenges, including the need for improved service delivery and infrastructure upgrades.
Critics fear that without a qualified technical director, the municipality may struggle to address these pressing issues.
As the situation develops, the community and local political stakeholders are awaiting a response from Ndlovu regarding the validity of Kekana’s appointment and the implications it may have for the future of the TCLM.
The TCLM had not responded to the paper’s queries regarding Kekana’s qualifications and experience by the time of going to press. Feedback from the premier will be published once received.
