KNYSNA NEWS - The ANC in the Southern Cape is working on bringing back former Knysna Acting Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz in her acting position.
ANC regional secretary Major Sokopo said in a statement that they intend proposing that Gratz be allowed to continue for a further six months in order to complete her turnaround strategy.
Gratz, chief financial officer Mbulelo Memani and DA Ward 10 Councillor Peter Myers resigned last week. However, the ANC regional leadership in the embattled municipality has resolved that Knysna needs support from both the provincial and national governments.
“The ANC resolved at its meeting to propose that the budget be adopted at the next council meeting, and also that a resolution is passed to extend Dr Gratz’s contract for six months. During this period she should be allowed to complete a turn-around strategy without any political external interference,” Sokopo said.
He said the ANC also resolved that a multi-party committee, to be led by Acting Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa, be established.
“Gratz should report to the multi-party committee every 14 days. This committee and Tsengwa should also be mandated to meet with ward committees and other stakeholders to explain the situation in the municipality,” he said.
Sokopo said Knysna is not at a level of being put under administration in any form.
“The legislation makes provision for assistance to municipalities that find themselves in this situation, not to be placed under administration. Knysna needs all its public representatives to work towards building a sound and stable government,” he said. “The DA’s call for Knysna to be placed under administration is unnecessary and opportunistic, while it also undermines attempts to find a solution amongst all political parties represented in the council.”
Related articles:
- Is Knysna imploding?
- Knysna United welcomes municipal shake-up
- Ratepayers deny Gratz allegations of interference
- Myers outlines reasons for resignation
- Gratz blames 'external body' for resignation
- Top officials and ward councillor resign
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