The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for the immediate removal of fraud-accused Johannesburg MMC for Community Development Kabelo Gwamanda.
Gwamanda who is accused of defrauding Soweto residents through his burial scheme was placed on leave after he was arrested and charged with fraud and corruption.
DA WANTS KABELO GWAMANDA REMOVED FROM HIS POSITION
The South African reported that Gwamanda met with Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero on Tuesday, 22 October, to deliberate on the charges he is facing.
City of Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero then placed Gwamanda on special leave saying the severity of the allegations demand a proactive response to protect the integrity of his office.
Further, Morero said Gwamanda’s matter will be referred to the speaker of council, who will handle it according to the legislated processes and rules of the council.
In the meantime, an acting MMC for Community Development will be appointed.
The DA has since called for Gwamanda to be removed from his position saying it cannot allow public funds allocated for critical service delivery to be wasted on individuals accused of fraud, particularly when benefits like VIP protection are involved.
DA caucus leader in the metro Belinda Kayser said there is no legal basis under the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, the Municipal Structures Act, or the Standing Rules and Orders of Council for “special leave” for members of the mayoral committee who face allegations or legal matters.
“The uncertainty surrounding the duration of Kabelo Gwamanda’s case is alarming. We cannot allow public funds allocated for critical service delivery to be wasted on individuals accused of fraud, particularly when benefits like VIP protection are involved. The DA strongly condemns this continued use of taxpayer funds without resolution,” she said.
DO YOU THINK KABELO GWAMANDA IS ENTITLED TO FULL PAY WHILE ON SPECIAL LEAVE?
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