DA calls on ANC to suspend Amathole District Mayor 

26 May 2016

The Democratic Alliance calls on the ANC to suspend Amathole District Mayor, Nomasikizi Konza, with immediate effect.

Konza, along with Mayoral Committee Member, Councillor Nanziwe Rulashe, were arrested by the Hawks on Monday for allegedly defrauding the municipality of more than R6 million. She is currently out on R15 000 bail.

While the DA stands firm in the assumption of innocence until proven guilty; we call on the ANC to do the right thing and suspend Konza pending the outcome of this investigation so that the integrity of the investigation can remain intact and free from all potential manipulation in the hands of a Mayor who has a dark cloud hanging over her head.

Already, the ANC, through its regional secretary, Thembalethu “Teris” Ntutu, accused the Hawks of persecuting Khonza, and expressed their unconditional support of her. This comes as no surprise as the ANC has shown greater dedication to protecting corrupt officials, including President Zuma, instead of holding them accountable by suspending them pending disciplinary enquiries.  

The ANC clearly governs like the lives of 8.9 million unemployed South Africa do not matter, and is the exact opposite of what it stood for in the struggle for liberation.  

The DA stands by its condemnation of the perpetual looting of public funds by the ANC, as well as the nonchalant attitude of ANC leaders at all levels of government. 

We reiterate our call on the ANC to hold Khonza and Rulashe to account by removing them from office through immediate suspension.

On 3 August 2016, voters will have an opportunity to vote for change that will stop corruption, create jobs and deliver better services for all South Africans. This is the change that will ensure the clean and honest government South Africans deserve. 

Issued by Kevin Mileham, DA Shadow Minister of Cooperative Governance & Traditional Affairs, 26 May 2016