MTHATHA, Eastern Cape – The O.R. Tambo District Municipality says its Council is dealing with allegations of misconduct involving Municipal Manager Mr Basil Mase.
The municipality released the statement on Friday. According to the municipality, Council received the allegations in line with the law that governs senior municipal managers.
Council said it is taking the matter seriously. It also said the process will be fair, open and lawful.
Basil Mase Takes Special Leave
Meanwhile, Mr Basil Mase has asked to take special leave.
According to the municipality, the leave will allow the process to continue without any real or perceived interference.
In addition, Council asked the Executive Mayor to seek advice from governance, legal and institutional experts.
Those experts will guide the process. They will also prepare a preliminary report with recommendations.
The report will be submitted to Council within the required timeframe.
Council to Decide on the Next Steps
Next, Council will study the report.
After that, it will decide on the next steps in line with the law and municipal rules.
At the same time, the municipality said it will protect the rights of everyone involved.
It also promised to handle the matter with fairness, honesty and due process.
Acting Municipal Manager Appointed
Meanwhile, Council has appointed Mr Liyanda Madzidzela, Director of Community Services, as Acting Municipal Manager with immediate effect.
Mr Madzidzela will oversee the daily administration of the municipality.
Council said it is confident in his leadership. It believes he will help maintain stable governance and uninterrupted service delivery across the district.
He will also ensure that Council resolutions are carried out.
No Findings Have Been Made
However, the municipality has not revealed the nature of the allegations against Mr Basil Mase.
It also confirmed that no findings have been made against him.
Therefore, Council will continue to follow its internal processes before making any decision.
For now, the municipality says it remains committed to accountability, transparency and good governance.
