Gillbert Mokotso has been elected as the new mayor of Maluti A Phofung Municipality in Qwaqwa. Malewatle Nthedi has retained the position of Speaker.
Opposition parties have welcomed the latest developments. However, they have vowed not to condone corruption and looting. Embattled former mayor Vusi Tshabalala’s last day in office was in May.
Two weeks ago a council sitting to appoint a new mayor, speaker and chief whip was disrupted. Workers downed tools in January after their salaries were not paid.
The community later joined the workers protest calling for Mayor Tshabalala to step down amidst allegations of corruption and poor service delivery.
Contracts of workers hired in December have been terminated following unlawful appointment procedures.
Opposition parties are now hopeful that things will turn around.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Caucus leader, Mahlomola Majake says: “We will make sure that that looting and corruption ends.”
The Democratic Alliance (DA) Caucus leader, Messing Mphakathi says: “We congratulate the newly appointed but we hope now that services will come to people.”
Dikwankwetla leader Moeketsi Lebesa says: “Services at the municipality are what we need.”
The African National Congress (ANC) is however disappointed with the existing divisions within the municipality.
The ANC PWC member Thanduxolo Khalipha says: “We’ve always had support in this municipality those whove caused divisions will suffer consequences.”
The provincial government will continue to assist the municipality.
The Free State Government DG, Kopung Ralikontsana says: “We will continue to work with the municipality and the newly appointed candidates until the municipality is stable.”
Opposition parties say the electricity crisis is on top of the agenda moving forward.
