EFF accuses Vhembe district municipality mayor, Freda Nkondo, of interference in the hiring of workers

ECONOMIC Freedom Fighters (EFF) has accused Limpopo’s Vhembe district municipality mayor, Freda Nkondo, of interference in the hiring of general workers.

However, municipality spokesperson, Matodzi Ralushai, has cast suspicions on the allegations, saying the hiring process was the responsibility of the accounting officer.

“So far there is no formal complaint submitted to the municipality. The appointment of staff is the responsibility of the accounting officer, and his office so far has not received any complain, and responding to allegations without formal submission will not be proper,” Ralushai said.

EFF’s Shadrack Hlungwani claimed that the mayor has forwarded the names of her office secretary and chief of staff for inclusion in the process of shortlisting and interviews.

“The mayor has overstepped her boundaries, violating Section 12(A) of the Code of Conduct for Councillors regarding interference in administrative matters….

“The chief of staff is ineligible to serve on the panel due the status as a contracted political appointee, which creates an inherent conflict of interest. Similarly, the secretary in the mayor’s office cannot partake in the panel discussions because of their political affiliations.

“The chief of staff has even been caught instructing the municipal manager through WhatsApp message, leveraging the mayor’s influence to secure a spot on the panel,” Hlungwani said.

He said the mayor committed to upholding accountability and good governance when she assumed office and it was crucial that she adheres to the principles.

The EFF is now demanding that the process of hiring general workers be restarted without undue political interference.