Only two ways to end fight

THE stalemate between the municipality and Bhisho over the city manager post can only be resolved if they sort it out amicably – or fight it out in court.

This is according to the national Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.

The Herald reported yesterday that Eastern Cape MEC Fikile Xasa had not confirmed city boss Johann Mettler’s appointment and advised mayor Athol Trollip to readvertise the post.

The MEC was not happy with the number of councillors on the recruitment panel, but the city was adamant it had done nothing wrong and that it had followed the prescripts of the law.

Cogta Minister Des van Rooyen’s office said yesterday the only option to resolve the impasse would be for Xasa to force compliance by the municipality.

Cogta spokesman Legadima Leso said: “Steps may include an application to a court for a declaratory order on the validity of the appointment, or any other legal action against the municipality.”

Leso said Xasa was obliged by the Municipal Systems Act to enforce compliance with the regulations.

Meanwhile, the city is facing a legal battle with Vuyo Mlokothi, the man who scored the highest points in the interviews for the city manager position.

The council appointed Mlokothi city manager in October, but it backtracked later on its decision due to claims that Mlokothi had failed to disclose crucial information relating to his previous job.

Mlokothi said his court bid with the city would be heard at the Port Elizabeth High Court on February 27.

DA MPL Bobby Stevenson said questions had been sent to Xasa about Mlokothi’s appointment this month as deputy director-general in the MEC’s department.