Suspended eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede has expressed her pain at the way the ANC communicated her extended suspension through the media.
Speaking through her spokesman councillor Nkosenhle Madlala the mayor said she was shocked and concerned that she only learned through the media that she won't be allowed to return to her office today.
This after ANC provincial secretary Mdumiseni Ntuli addressed the media on Wednesday and said the mayor's leave of absence has been extended pending the finalisation of the investigation by the task team that was established to assess her capabilities to lead the municipality.
This after she was arrested and released on bail.
Ethekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede's supporters have brought the Durban city centre to a standstill demanding her return. This after the ANC provincial leadership extended her suspension on Wednesday. She was expected to return to her office today. pic.twitter.com/If6gV5CbNV
— Daily Sun (@dailysunsa) July 11, 2019
Ntuli also cited the mayor’s strict bail conditions as part of the assessment whether she will be to discharge her duties.
Madlala said the mayor felt undermined that no one from the ANC thought of informing her about changes in her leave.
The mayor also lashed out at the police for arresting her supporters and journalists.
She said what she saw reminded her of apartheid brutality.
Among those arrested were the Councillor's supporter’s leader Mzo Dube.
At the time of writing their lawyers were still negotiating their release.
KZN police arrested ENCA journalist Siphamandla Goge outside the Durban City Hall. Cops were dispersing mayor Zandile Gumede's supporters. Goge was released later after the intervention of senior police officers. pic.twitter.com/JYv4KFgbt4
— Daily Sun (@dailysunsa) July 11, 2019
