Ekurhuleni Mayor Xhakaza tight-lipped on ANC-EFF relationship

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The City of Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza remains tight-lipped on the future of the African National Congress (ANC) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)’s relationship in the region.

The mayor invited the media to a briefing intended to introduce newly appointed Finance MMC Jongizizwe Dlabathi while also unveiling the metro’s adjusted R60 billion budget.

Dlabathi replaces the EFF’s provincial Chairperson Nkululeko Dunga who was relieved of his duty in June.

Asked if the ANC would continue working with the EFF following the firing of Dunga, Xhakaza says he would only address the media on official government matters.

Mayor Xhakaza has acknowledged the difficulties of managing coalitions and says coalitions have not been an easy task, despite both the EFF and ANC refusing to call their working relations, a coalition.

While the mayor beat about the bush on the future of the two parties working together, the removal of the EFF’s Nkululeko Dunga as MMC for Finance could signal a rift between the two parties.

“The region is not under administration politically…we are given an opportunity to lead and give strategic leadership. We consult higher structure on how we move to ensure proper alignment and a case in point, the national frame on coalitions still stands,” says Xhakaza.

Meanwhile, the incoming MMC for finance, Jongizizwe Dlabathi has vowed to improve the audit performance of the municipality. Dlabathi unveils the revenue enhancement measures which include encouraging a culture of payment.

They will introduce a once-off conditional debt relief process which will see 75% of residents’ historic debt being written off.

“In essence, every household must pay for services. We are not expecting the full payment but those who can, must pay. There must not be a month where a month passes without paying something. We will deal with debt so there are early warnings. To be informed on time to make their contributions,” Dlabathi explains.

Meanwhile, the wait continues to see how the leadership will bring back political stability in the region.

Ekurhuleni Mayor appoints new Finance MMC