SECUNDA – The Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) has denied claims by the Sakhisizwe Progressive Movement (Sapromo) that the appointment of Mr Bongumusa Sithole, chief financial officer (CFO), was illegal and that the proper procedures were not followed.
Mr Sibusiso Hlolweni, leader of Sapromo, alleged that Mr Sithole’s occupation of the office was fraudulent and a fruitless expenditure.
He said that to his knowledge, the CFO only signs a contract once the municipality receives a concurrent letter from the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) of Local Government in the province.
“If the Municipal Manager or director of Cooperative Governance might say Mr Sithole is hired legally, let them show us and the public a concurrent letter signed by the then MEC, Refilwe Mtsweni.
“If they can’t provide the letter, our statement remains that Mr Sithole has no contract with the municipality.
“Mr Benzi Soko, GMM chief of staff, was duly appointed in accordance with the stipulations of the legislative framework.
“All Section 56 managers are appointed through council resolutions.”
Mr Nhlakanipho Zuma, speaker, also confirmed that Mr Sithole was legally employed and that all procedures were followed.
“The law requires that senior managers are employed through a council resolution. A resolution was taken by the council to employ Mr Sithole.”
