This follows a spate of acts of criminality where employees were at times threatened and intimidated by a group of individuals who are demanding tenders and the resignation of the municipal manager, mayor and speaker. 

The MEC, Mmoloki Cwaile, who paid a visit to the troubled municipality on Thursday, says challenges faced by the municipality are as a result of business interest, administrative issues and political instabilities. The municipality has two Troika members, including Mayor Maetu Kgaile and Speaker Washington Ntozini - who refuse to step from their positions as directed by the ANC Interim Provincial Committee.

Cwaile says for the municipality to function effectively they have asked for assistance from the police as part of their contingency plans.

"Importantly, we would impress upon SAPS that we need them to process the cases swiftly. We will also provide some guidance and support around the administrative matters related to the municipality," he adds.

OFM News previously reported that a video of a scuffle between security guards and an irate group of residents who stormed the precinct of the municipality has recently been doing the rounds on social media.

According to the spokesperson of the mayor, Nick Mapheelle, they are sometimes told these groups of individuals want the troika members - which in this case include Kgaile and Ntozini - to step down. He said the spate of such incidents is a concern to the municipality, with no less than five incidents that occurred in the past few months.

However, Cwaile adds that "we will look into other matters of concern through varying processes and we are determined that the challenges that are facing the municipality can be resolved. What is needed is the participation of all other interested groups but we remain on course and we are focused".

OFM News