DA abandons call for COGTA intervention in KwaDukuza's mayoral crisis

THE Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaDukuza municipality has abandoned its bid for the intervention of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in the ongoing saga surrounding caretaker Mayor Ali Ngidi.

The municipality is poised to elect a new mayor on Thursday, a decision stemming from mounting frustration over Ngidi's refusal to vacate his post, despite being recalled by his party.

DA caucus leader Privi Makhan has been vocal about the urgent need for COGTA's intervention, warning that the municipality was spiralling into disarray under Ngidi's leadership.

“Ngidi has insisted on staying on as the mayor despite calls from the council to have him removed,” she stated.

This persistent action, supported by the African National Congress (ANC), was described by Makhan as undermining the council's legislative functions and bringing service delivery to a halt.

Although he was officially recalled by the ANC, Ngidi appeared to be unfazed, maintaining his role as a ceremonial figurehead and continuing to engage in public events.

Critics argued that he was hindering crucial decision-making processes at the municipality while lacking accountability for the legislative crisis unfolding during his tenure.

“KwaDukuza is not a pawn in the ANC’s internal political games,” reiterated Makhan, emphasising that the community was being deprived of essential services due to Ngidi's intransigence against his party’s directive.

She further condemned the situation, declaring that it reflected the chaos created by the ANC’s internal dysfunction.

As tensions mount and the countdown to the new mayoral election ticked away, residents and political analysts alike watch closely, hopeful for a resolution that would bring stability and effective governance back to KwaDukuza.

DAILY NEWS