UMHLATHUZE senior manager Mbali Ndlovu returned to work today after Council’s decision to place her on precautionary suspension was set aside by the Durban Labour Court on Tuesday.
But her return was short-lived after alleged union shop steward intimidation made her presence uncomfortable and she went home by agreement ‘in fear of my security and well-being’.
The Deputy Municipal Manager: Corporate Services lodged an urgent interdict against the municipality following Council’s resolution last Tuesday to temporarily relieve her of duties pending the outcome of an independent investigation.
Ndlovu had argued that Council’s decision to prematurely place her on precautionary suspension was ‘unconstitutional, unlawful and illegal’.
The judge subsequently uplifted the suspension meaning that Ndlovu was reinstated to her position with immediate effect.
In light of the circumstances, the judge ruled that Ndlovu was not obligated to return to work.
However, the senior manager reported for duty on Wednesday, adding that she intended to honour the duration of her contract in agreement with the Council.
Employed at the municipality for the past nine years, Ndlovu’s contract is expected to end on 30 June.
Probe
Meanwhile, independent investigators have begun a probe into allegations of misconduct against Ndlovu after a string of grievances were levelled by the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) in April.
These include improper use of municipal funds without Council authorisation, unbecoming conduct, failure to uphold Council policy and the misleading of Council on legal matters.
In her legal response, through Hlela Attorneys, Ndlovu claimed the allegations were prompted by her refusal to ‘bow down’ to political pressure especially when it came to the recruitment of union members and family members of high ranking politicians.
Despite claims of political ‘bullying’ relating to the appointment of his wife, Regional ANC Chairperson Thulani Mashaba told the Zululand Observer that she was hired on pure merit.
‘My wife has an Honours in Biochemistry from the University of Zululand and was the highest qualified person for the job.
She had previous experience at Mhlathuze Water and had applied for the post at uMhlathuze.
She also completed her MBA. Nobody at the time said she was incompetent.
This is a municipal and internal matter and I am prepared to defend myself in a court of law,’ said Mashaba.
