One of the local pastors and community leaders from Koffiefontein, Simon Khomojong, says he is disappointed with the resignation of Sello Bahumi as the acting mayor but claims that he is not surprised because Bahumi did not receive support from municipal officials. He says it was evidently clear that Bahumi did not enjoy the support of officials at the municipality hence his hand was forced to resign. Meanwhile, Lehlohonolo Kevin Banda from Petrusburg has expressed satisfaction with the resignation of Bahumi but again cast doubts on the appointment of the new acting mayor Abram Lebaka. Banda says Lebaka will have to prove himself and show whether he is fit for the mayoral post

Residents of Petrusburg and Koffiefontein have been vocal and protested against Bahumi who they accused of being absent in most cases and failing to attend to service delivery issues, which include water issues and the creation of jobs.

Bahumi, however, told OFM News that the pressure and accusations levelled against politicians - be it in municipalities or government entities - have far-reaching implications and are at times unfair because politicians always carry the blame on behalf of others. The newly elected acting mayor Lebaka says communication will be key in his attempt to address service delivery issues which continue to besiege this municipality.  

His sentiments seem to be shared by Banda who says in most cases residents are angered by the lack of communication from municipal officials including the mayor who he says sometimes lie to residents and decide not to engage with residents.

OFM News