Rumours are doing the rounds that Theo van Vuuren’s term as administrator had been extended.
This however could not be confirmed yet.
A reliable source let slip that Van Vuuren will still be at the helm of the administration in the municipality for an extended period, but he could not give a definite time frame.
At a sitting in August, Mpumalanga Executive Committee requested a report from the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs and Emalahleni Local Municipality before they make their final decisions on Van Vuuren’s future in the City of Coal.
The report, focussing on the aging infrastructure in the municipality and service delivery problems experienced especially in the informal settlements, was tabled and discussed on September 3.
“The outcome of the decision will be conveyed by Executive Committee members who will be paying Emalahleni a visit soon,’ said Mr Zibonele Mncwango, spokesperson for the office of the premier.
Not even Van Vuuren is giving a hint. He only said, “At the cabinet meeting a week ago decisions in this respect were taken, which will be formalised and conveyed to the municipality. Until that is done I will still continue with my work here. Those people deployed with me likewise will remain until cabinet make their decision known.”
Van Vuuren’s intervention period ended on August 31. This is 16 months after he was appointed on April 23 last year, to steer the sinking municipality to calmer waters.
