Tensions have escalated between the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) and the uMkhanyakude District Municipality, with Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi accusing the municipality of refusing government intervention amid an ongoing fraud and corruption investigation.
The dispute centers on a provincial intervention under Section 139(1)(b) of the Constitution, which allows the provincial executive to assume administrative control of a municipality failing to fulfill its obligations. Buthelezi claims the intervention was necessary due to financial mismanagement, including the municipality’s alleged inability to implement a credit and debt collection policy, as flagged by the Auditor-General (AG).
However, municipal speaker Solomon Mkhombo has vehemently rejected the intervention, calling it “unconstitutional, arbitrary, and politically motivated.” In a heated interview, Mkhombo argued that the municipality had resolved eight of ten material irregularities identified by the AG and accused Buthelezi of skipping procedural steps, such as consultations under Sections 154 and 139A, before imposing the intervention.
Locked Gates and Alleged “Secret BNB” Operations
The conflict took a bizarre turn when questions arose about where municipal operations were being conducted after the head office was reportedly locked. Buthelezi’s office suggested municipal affairs were being run from a private BNB, a claim Mkhombo dismissed as a “lie” meant to tarnish the council’s reputation.
“The schemes are running, water is being distributed, and the disaster center is operational,” Mkhombo insisted, though he admitted the head office closure remained contentious. He blamed the MEC for inflaming tensions by “singing war songs” and failing to follow due process.
Administrator’s Qualifications Under Scrutiny
Mkhombo further challenged the legitimacy of the appointed administrator questioning his qualifications and alleging irregularities in his selection. “We have doctors and highly qualified officials—how can someone with an unknown background supervise them?” he asked.
Services at Risk?
While Buthelezi warned of dwindling services, Mkhombo countered with documentation showing 100% MIG grant expenditure, a fully funded budget, and improved water access (81.3%, per Stats SA). He accused the MEC of sabotaging progress for political gains ahead of the 2026 local elections.
Legal Battle Looms
With negotiations stalled, the municipality has turned to the courts, seeking to:
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Freeze municipal accounts, arguing the administrator was unlawfully made a signatory.
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Compel the MEC to disclose the cabinet submission justifying the intervention.
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Challenge the intervention’s legality, citing procedural flaws.
Mkhombo also pointed to other struggling KZN municipalities (eThekwini, uMzinyathi) that he claims were overlooked, suggesting selective targeting.
What’s Next?
As the standoff continues, residents fear prolonged instability. The MEC’s office has yet to respond to Mkhombo’s latest allegations, but with litigation underway, the dispute appears headed for a judicial resolution.
For now, uMkhanyakude’s leadership vows to “defend the municipality’s autonomy,” while Cogta insists its intervention is lawful and necessary to “restore good governance.”