Mhlaba Memela

Mhlaba Memela

A war of words has erupted between the KwaZulu-Natal department of local government and the IFP over the employment of former uMgungundlovu municipality mayor Bongi Sithole by the department.

This after the IFP accused provincial MEC for local government, housing and traditional affairs Mike Mabuyakhulu of creating a post for Sithole.

Sithole was recalled from her mayoral position in the ANC-led municipality following alleged mismanagement in the council last year.

The IFP has accused Mabuyakhulu of appointing Sithole to the post of senior dispute resolution manager in the department.

Sithole's salary package stands at R620000 a year.

IFP local government spokesperson Peter Smith said Mabuyakhulu had given Sithole a lifeline.

"Sithole was fired last year for misappropriating council funds and appointing unqualified people to senior positions," he said.

Department spokesperson Mthatheni Mabaso accused the IFP of lying, saying Sithole was appointed after the post was advertised in the newspapers.