KZN ANC to clarify on eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede’s axing

The ANC in KZN will hold a media briefing on Tuesday to provide clarity on reports its provincial executive committee (PEC) has taken a decision to axe eThekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede.

The provincial spokesperson of the party, Ricardo Mthembu, confirmed that the ANC would hold a media briefing on Tuesday at 1pm to explain the matter further.

Meanwhile, following reports on Monday of Gumede’s sacking, the DA in the province said it welcomed the mayor’s axing and called “for more heads to roll”.

The party accused the ANC of “dragging” its “feet on this matter for months at the expense of the people of eThekwini”.

Last week, the ANC’s KZN secretary-general, Mdumiseni Ntuli, announced that Gumede’s leave of absence would be extended.

This was the second time that Gumede’s special leave was extended.

Gumede was forced to take leave by the PEC, led by chairperson Sihle Zikalala, after her arrest – and subsequent release on R50,000 bail – on charges of fraud and corruption related to a R208-million Durban Solid Waste tender.

ALSO READ: Zandile Gumede’s leave of absence extended

The DA’s caucus leader in eThekwini, Nicole Graham, said: “The investigative report that led to her arrest explains just how Gumede had interfered with key line departments and appointments to capture the municipality. She has interfered with procurement processes and made sure that those close to her have benefitted.”

Graham called on the ANC and the eThekwini council to “urgently resolve to act against” 62 councillors who were reportedly mentioned in court “as having worked with Gumede to implement her corrupt schemes” and “fire them too”.

(Compiled by Makhosandile Zulu)

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