The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Sol Plaatje insists that the timelines for the investigation and any resultant disciplinary action against the Municipal Manager, Thapelo Matala, must be strictly observed.
The DA views the allegations brought against Thapelo Matlala by the community as very serious.
We are completely opposed to corruption. The DA also voted against Matlala’s initial appointment as MM, after important selection criteria were withheld from council, and we identified and supported more suitable candidates.
However, in as much as we want to see justice served, taxpayers must be protected from a scenario, whereby hasty decision making and the failure to follow due process, sabotages the implementation of proper consequence management.
The prolonged suspension of former MM, Goolam Akharwary, who continued to earn his full salary for the entire term of his contract, without ever being officially disciplined or charged, is a case in point.
The DA understands the discontent of the public. We were surprised that the Mayor, Speaker and Chief Whip of the ANC chose to formally discuss this matter with the community, without informing council about the process they were engaged in.
It was also clear in today’s Special Council Meeting that the public was expecting the MM to be suspended with immediate effect.
The DA is in favour of a speedy and unbiased investigation being conducted. We will monitor the process to ensure that, in the event that a disciplinary process is initiated, the proper timelines for written submission of representations by Matlala, and Council responses to the representations are adhered to.
The DA will also oppose any requests for postponements after the prescribed period for initiation of a hearing in the instance of precautionary suspension as it is in the best interests of the entire Kimberley community that this matter be finalized as quickly as possible.
Consequence management must not be derailed and taxpayers’ money must be protected.