Mixed reactions to Sutcliffe's appointment in Msunduzi Municipality

THERE has been mixed reaction from ratepayers and political parties to the appointment of Dr Michael Sutcliffe to assist with the turnaround strategy for Msunduzi Municipality.

- ZAINUL DAWOOD

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, appointed Sutcliffe as the governance expert to support the municipality. He said this was a crucial step towards implementing a comprehensive turnaround strategy for the municipality.

Buthelezi, said Sutcliffe’s appointment comes after a sustained outcry over deteriorating municipal infrastructure and a sharp decline in business confidence in the Pietermaritzburg CBD.

According to Buthelezi, Sutcliffe’s immediate task is the implementation of a turnaround plan, with a specific and urgent focus on restoring service delivery, strengthening good governance, restoring investor confidence, and ensuring sound financial management. Sutcliffe previously served as the eThekwini municipal manager and has also worked as a local government expert, supporting municipalities across the KZN province.