Former Knysna mayor Aubrey Tsengwa has been temporarily suspended by the ANC after his resignation as a Ward 8 councillor.
The decision was made by the party’s Western Cape provincial executive committee on Wednesday.
Tsengwa is also the acting regional chair.
In a letter to Tsengwa, ANC provincial secretary Neville Delport said his decision to resign as a ward councillor impeded party activities, which constituted misconduct.
“We now find ourselves in a situation of having to contest a by-election in Knysna, which has been thrust on us at a very inopportune time.
“[With] the impact of your unilateral decision to resign your ward councillor’s seat, this letter serves as a notice of a temporary suspension pending the disciplinary proceedings which will be initiated against you shortly.”
Western Cape ANC spokesperson Muhamid Khalid Sayed confirmed the temporary suspension, as did the region’s ANC spokesperson, Moyisi Magalela.
“We wish to guarantee a fair disciplinary process. We will continue with the work of the ANC as the regional leadership until advised otherwise by the provincial leadership,” Magalela said.
Tsengwa said he was unaware of the suspension.
“I can’t speak on the allegations or what is said about me on a public platform.
“I heard last night that I am suspended on social media. I will only be able to comment [later today] after a meeting with my representation.”
EFF councillor Neil Louw submitted the motion of no confidence to remove Tsengwa as mayor.
Tsengwa announced his resignation as a councillor earlier in April during a council meeting.
In April 2023, Western Cape local government, environmental affairs and development planning MEC Anton Bredell appointed a committee to examine allegations against certain councillors and provide recommendations.
The investigation followed a council resolution in September 2022 to create seven support staff positions in the offices of then-mayor Tsengwa, then-deputy mayor Alberto Marbi and speaker Mncedisi Skosana.
The Herald
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