The City’s Executive Committee this morning affirmed its unwavering commitment to address the concerns raised by Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka. Pictured with Advocate Gcaleka is eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, Deputy Mayor Councillor Zandile Myeni and eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele.
Image: Supplied
In a decisive move towards restoring public trust, the Executive Committee of eThekwini Municipality convened on Monday at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
The meeting, led by Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba, was convened to affirm the municipality's commitment to addressing serious concerns raised by Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, as part of an ongoing effort to enhance collaboration and service delivery.
Advocate Gcaleka’s presentation revealed a concerning assessment, disclosing that a total of 29 formal complaints have been lodged against the municipality. These complaints range from allegations of maladministration, undue delays, and abuse of power to severe service delivery failures.
“Our Office has identified systemic issues that demand urgent attention,” stated Advocate Gcaleka.
She continued to emphasise that the complaints reflect a significant erosion of public trust, largely stemming from persistent breakdowns in service delivery and administrative inefficiencies.
In response to this critical assessment, Mayor Xaba expressed a vigorous commitment to collaboration with the Public Protector's Office. He announced plans to convene a dedicated session aimed at thoroughly reviewing the existing memorandum of understanding between the municipality and the Public Protector’s Office.
The City’s Executive Committee this morning affirmed its unwavering commitment to address the concerns raised by Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka.
Image: Supplied
“We welcome this proactive engagement and pledge our full cooperation. We will develop comprehensive action plans to expedite investigations and implement tangible improvements without delay,” assured Mayor Xaba.
City Manager Musa Mbhele echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the concerns raised by the Public Protector are being treated with utmost seriousness.
“We are actively implementing strategic plans to rectify these deficiencies,” Mbhele noted.
The City’s Executive Committee this morning affirmed its unwavering commitment to address the concerns raised by Public Protector Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka.
Image: Supplied
He went on to detail plans for the proposal of a new municipal organogram, which will create a dedicated office to address concerns raised by Chapter 9 institutions, including the Human Rights Commission and the Special Investigating Unit. This initiative is aimed at ensuring a streamlined, efficient, and transparent process for handling complaints and inquiries.
“The Municipality acknowledges the urgent need to restore public confidence,” Mbhele affirmed, signalling the beginning of a sustained effort to deliver governance that is both accountable and effective.
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