Councillors’ pay packets come out short

OPPOSITION councillors are in the dark after their salaries were short paid by the Enoch Mgijima local municipality (EMLM) and contradicting information is forthcoming.

Cope councillor Nomazotsho Kopolo said her salary was short and she had got no explanation from the municipality. She felt abused, saying the municipality was being run into the ground with no sense of leadership.

“There is no direction and

service. Self enrichment and factions are the order of the day.”

She said the municipality was quick to buy expensive cars, but did not focus on service delivery.

The UDM’s Mthuthuzeli Hokolo also confirmed not receiving his full salary, saying the municipality was not honest about the reason.

He was informed deductions had been made for his cellphone contract but did not understand how as the phones had been taken back in Sep-

tember. “This has a negative impact on our budgets. We should have been told if money was to be deducted.”

Aaron Mhlontlo of the United Front said he had not received his salary advice but had noticed a shortage. “We were not told there would be deductions. To date we have not received any explanation.”

EFF councillor Thobeka Blekiwe confirmed the shortage and that the municipality was mum on reasons.

EMLM chief whip and ANC councillor Funeka Sopapazi

said she was checking with chief financial officer Nomathandazo Ntshanga. She advised councillors to approach Ntshanga for an explanation.

EMLM communications officer Gcobani Msindwana said according to the municipal payroll system all councillors were paid in full.

“If you can kindly give supporting documents as we cannot speculate on rumours or hearsay. I will await your response in this regard,” said Msindwana .