Despite allegations of misconduct, Joburg City defends Botes' appointment as acting COO and promises due process.
Samwu members protest outside the council chambers in Braamfontein yesterday against the City of Joburg’s refusal to account for its failure to provide answers regarding the Helen Botes/JPC scandal, which they say is a betrayal of transparency and good governance. Picture: Nigel Sibanda
City spokesperson Nthatisi Modingoane emphasised that there was nothing improper about her appointment. “The process is legislated. It does not require public advertisement as it is an executive decision based on competencies and the availability of the incumbent.“We followed all due processes, and we are satisfied that there is stability at the leadership level, ensuring that services continue to be delivered efficiently.”The SA Municipal Workers Union has threatened protest action, saying due process was bypassed and called for nullification of her appointment.
There are also concerns over the lack of implementation of the Khampepe report, which called for “appropriate action” against Botes. The report highlighted her direct responsibility for the state of a building that caught fire, killing 76 people.Further questions have been raised regarding alleged money laundering through property transactions, R470 million in irregular Covid fogging contracts and a potentially irregular Civic Centre refurbishment project set to cost at least R2 billion.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
DA Opposes Helen Botes as New Johannesburg City ManagerThe Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg rejects the appointment of Helen Botes as the city manager, citing her past failures in building maintenance and her responsibility for the Usindiso fire tragedy. They call for an independent agency to lead the recruitment process.
Read more »
Court Rules City of Joburg's VIP Policy UnconstitutionalThe Johannesburg High Court ruled that the City of Joburg's VIP protection policy, which granted excessive security detail to political officials, is invalid and unconstitutional. The court ordered the city to justify the need for such extensive protection and highlighted the financial burden on residents.
Read more »
City of Joburg’s VIP Policy Deemed Unconstitutional, Mayor and Officials Won’t Receive More SecurityThe City of Johannesburg's VIP Policy, which would have afforded the mayor and other officials more security, has been found to be unlawful by the high court.
Read more »
Joburg Water set to cut water supply in these parts of the cityJohannesburg Water has announced plans to cut water supply in certain parts of the city to address the ongoing water woes.
Read more »
Joburg's City Power: A Cycle of Frustration and Closed TicketsCity Power continues to close tickets without explanation, leaving Joburg residents in the dark and fueling anger over persistent power outages. This practice creates a frustrating loop for residents who must repeatedly relog faults, leading to exasperation and a lack of trust in the utility.
Read more »
Joburg Council Approves Controversial Acting City Manager AppointmentThe City of Johannesburg council has approved the appointment of Tshepo Makola as acting city manager, despite opposition from the DA and ActionSA. The decision was made during a council meeting on Friday, with 139 councillors voting in favor, 60 against, and 41 abstaining. The DA and ActionSA argued that Makola's appointment was made without proper consultation with the council, while the ANC defended the decision, claiming it was in the best interests of the city's residents.
Read more »