KNYSNA NEWS - After six months without a permanent municipal manager, Knysna finally has a steersman back on deck after Dr Sitembele Wiseman Vatala was offered an appointment to a three-year term as MM.
This announcement was met with no objections but rather an uncustomary round of applause in council by both DA and ANC members, while also being welcomed by the usually highly critical Knysna Ratepayers' Association.
'Proven track record'
Mayor Mark Willemse told council that despite Vitala having a history of disciplinary hearings and suspensions at his previous employment, "none of it amounted to misconduct" and that he has the qualifications, competency and proven track record to take the municipality forward.
Vatala was previously the MM of Emalahleni Municipality in the Eastern Cape, where he was subject to disciplinary proceedings.
'Best applicant for the job'
Vatala's appointment in Knysna was announced at a special council meeting on Thursday 28 February by Willemse, who said Vatala scored the highest points during two separate rounds of interviews.
Councillor Titi Gombo of the ANC expressed well wishes, stating that every boat needs a captain, and that Vatala's appointment would be beneficial for Knysna. "Of all the own goals scored by the Knysna DA, this is the right one," she said.
Councillor Aubrey Tswgena, also of the ANC, also thanked the mayor for selecting Vatala. "I think the mayor's heart was not there, but in the end Vatala was the best candidate and he had no choice. From today, Knysna moves forward."
Deputy mayor Ricky van Aswegen (Cope) said he is happy about the appointment. "This will bring some much-needed administrative stability to our municipality," he said.
Knysna's new municipal manager Dr Sitembele Wiseman Vatala. Photo: Supplied
'We took concerns seriously'
Councillor Lavael Davis (DA) commented that he was impressed with a doctoral thesis written by Vatala on finances, and also with his high levels of competency.
Willemse concluded by stating that a two-step process was required for the appointment as there were concerns about Vatala's previous employment. "We took these concerns very seriously and would've conducted a three-step process if necessary. Thank you all for endorsing this decision," he told council.
The KRA said in a statement, "We welcome the offer to Mr Vatala. He is well qualified and has proven his mettle in Emahlahleni. Knysna sorely needs a strong, experienced MM to install accountability in the administration, eliminate corruption and improve service delivery to all our communities."
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