ANC denies telling mayor to step down

THE ANC has denied that it instructed Sol Plaatje executive mayor Mangaliso Matika to “step down or face the axe”, as was reported on social media platforms yesterday.

ANC sources, however, stated that the ANC National Executive Committee (NEC), during its visit to the city last week, had recommended that Matika should resign as mayor.

“Members of the NEC, the Provincial Working Committee and the Provincial Executive Committee had reasoned that the city could not afford another shutdown.

“Although it was a hard decision, it was agreed that it was in the best interests of the organisation for Matika to step down, so that relations could be mended with the community.”

There was also much talk of bringing in ANC MPL Maruping Lekwene as the next mayor, although it was reported that he could instead be appointed as an MEC after the national list conference.

ANC provincial spokesperson, Naledi Gaosekwe, said the ANC was still busy with internal processes and had not made any decisions regarding the mayor.

“NEC member Zweli Mkhize had advised us to consult with the community and report back.”

She added that the ANC would not be party to any of the court proceedings on August 22.

“The ANC has decided to respect the court order and will allow legal processes to be finalised.”

Gaosekwe added that they were in the process of disciplining the ANC councillors who had participated in the special council meeting that was held to oust Matika as mayor.

ANC provincial secretary, Deshi Ngxanga, stated yesterday that they intended to restore political and administrative stability to all municipalities in the Province.