By Linda Ximba
Suspended IFP Msinga mayor Mletheni Ndlovu could be in trouble with his party.
He was accused of showing up at the municipal offices every day last week, in spite of the suspension ordered by the IFP’s National Executive Committee.
Ndlovu is out on bail after his arrest on firearm-related charges.
It is not the only controversy involving the suspended mayor. He was in the news after a party councillor publicly accused him of being involved in the killing of councillor Siyanda Magubane two months ago.
The IFP insists that Ndlovu’s suspension is not linked to the death of party councillor Magubane.
It was handed down only after his arrest for failing to lock away a firearm in a prescribed safe.
In a statement the party’s spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said: “Councillors Mletheni Ndlovu, Thokozani Sokhela and Mhawukeleni Sokhela are directed to take a leave of absence from all municipal activities and responsibilities.”
Ndlovu seems to have defied his party’s orders as he’s been at the municipality lately.
A source at the municipality said: “He is a feared man. Nobody has plucked up the courage to confront him about his presence because the party has not released a statement regarding his future.”
Contacted for comment, Ndlovu laughed off allegations that he’s been seen at the offices carrying out his mayoral duties.
“No no that’s not true. My wife works at the municipality. I’ve been there to catch up with her,” he said.
Hlengwa said they will investigate the allegations and take proper steps.
Ndlovu’s bodyguards Msawenkosi Lionel Malembe and Mvikeleni Mzolo were also arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm as well as unlawful possession of ammunition.
They were granted R1,000 bail each.
Pictured above: Msinga mayor Mletheni Ndlovu
Image source: Msinga Municipality
