The Endumeni Council’s bid for clean administration has seen letters written to over 20 employees appointed and promoted during the time the Council was operating under an illegal resolution.
Speaker Siduduzo Mdluli was at pains to point out that everything is being done to ensure ‘absolute fairness’, as many of the appointees did not realise the decisions were irregular.
“The letters indicate that their appointments/promotions are illegal. However, we are open to listen to any objections they may have. Posts will be re-advertised – these people will not be prejudiced and are welcome to apply.”
He admitted that it has been a rough year for Endumeni, with burning tyres in the streets, firebombing of the municipal building, computer theft, protests and the sacking of three senior managers.
However, since April four new acting managers have been installed. Mr Biyela is facing disciplinary charges and the Speaker is hopeful that a sense of stability is slowly returning.
“Mr Biyela has been suspended and we are paying him as per legislation. His hearing will take its course. Advocate R Brijraj is acting Municipal Manager, but is operating from the Umzinyathi building as a result of the assault on him in December.
“He does have bodyguards, and we cannot divulge where he is staying. One would appreciate that threats have been made against him. While the criminal case of assault has come to nothing (up until now), internal steps have been taken against those employees implicated in the assault on Advocate Brijraj.”
Speaker Mdluli said the goings-on at the municipality over the past six months have dented the image of the institution.
“It was a circus. There was no discipline. We are doing all we can to bring discipline and respect back. No business or institution can work without discipline.”
He also confirmed that a process is underway to recover money paid to officials who were deemed to have received irregular acting allowances.
“There will be no zig-zagging. The Municipal Finance Act allows us to take such action, and we will recover money due to ratepayers.”
