Celani Sikhakhane brings the latest news from Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Pietermaritzburg – The KZN Department of Finance under DA leader Francois Rodgers has accused Repayment Administrator (RA) Johannes Kruger of telling lies about Ithala Bank so that it could be liquidated. The KZN Treasury said contrary to the RA’s claims, Ithala does not have a solvency or liquidity problem. It said as of 31 October 2024, Ithala’s total assets amounted to R3.25-billion while total liabilities amounted to R2.93-billion. This means Ithala’s assets exceeded its liabilities by R316-million. IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa claimed that the agenda to close Ithala Bank is to benefit the white establishment’s banks at the expense of black South Africans.
Durban – Police in KwaZulu-Natal have noted with concern the malicious allegations directed towards Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The accusations are being peddled via WhatsApp messages and other social platforms. “I remain focused on my job and encourage all police officers to do the same. Together we have been entrusted with keeping the residents of KwaZulu-Natal safe and protecting their property,” said Mkhwanazi in his response. “We were trained to ignore empty threats, baseless accusations and no amount of untruths perpetrated against us will force us to take the foot off the pedal.”
Ethekwini – eThekwini Municipality has rejected claims of being bankrupt and has reassured residents that the City remains in good financial standing despite a constrained national fiscal environment. It said services continue to be rendered in line with the approved budget for the 2024/25 financial year. City manager Musa Mbhele noted that some expenditure items are higher than normal due to causes including adverse weather conditions which required more resources. Examples include heat waves affecting electricity substations and persistent heavy rain impacting water infrastructure.
Pictured: The KZN Treasury accused Johannes Kruger of forcing the agenda to close Ithala bank without evidence.
Source: X
