eThekwini Municipality has committed to address 29 formal complaints lodged against the City.
Complaints lodged by residents with the Public Protector, range from allegations of maladministration, undue delays, abuse of power, improper prejudice, to critical service delivery failures.
Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, the Public Protector, met with the eThekwini’s Executive Committee this morning, 31 March.
Gcaleka said “our Office has identified systemic issues that demand urgent attention. The complaints we have received reflect a profound erosion of public trust, stemming from persistent service delivery breakdowns and administrative shortcomings. This meeting is a critical step towards rectifying these issues through enhanced collaboration and stringent implementation of remedial actions.”
In response, Cyril Xaba, the Mayor of eThekwini, said “we welcome this proactive engagement and pledge our full cooperation. We will immediately convene a dedicated session to rigorously review the existing memorandum of understanding and will develop comprehensive action plans to address each identified issue. This process will ensure the Public Protector’s investigations are expedited and that tangible, measurable improvements are implemented without delay.”
EThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele reinforced this commitment saying the issues raised by the Public Protector have not been taken lightly.
“We are actively implementing strategic plans to rectify these deficiencies. Crucially, the proposed new Municipal organogram will establish a dedicated office to manage and promptly address all concerns raised by Chapter 9 institutions including the Human Rights Commission and the Special Investigating Unit. This will guarantee a streamlined, efficient, and transparent process for handling all complaints and inquiries. The Municipality acknowledges the urgent need to restore public confidence and will ensure that this engagement marks the beginning of a sustained and rigorous effort to deliver accountable, efficient, and effective governance,” said Mbhele.