The EFF in the Eastern Cape has strongly opposed the appointment of Mr Vuyo Mlokothi as the permanent Head of Department for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), calling it a blow to ethical leadership and public trust.
The party says Mlokothi’s record in local government is surrounded by mismanagement and scandal. He previously held a senior role in the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, infamous for the R15 million Lesseyton Sports Field debacle labelled a symbol of wasteful spending. A forensic report confirmed irregular tender processes and poor workmanship, with a Hawks investigation still ongoing.
Since becoming Acting HOD in 2023, the EFF claims Mlokothi has failed to rescue struggling municipalities, only 14 of 39 in the province are considered functional.
The party also questions the integrity of the appointment process, stating it was not openly advertised, denying skilled professionals the opportunity to apply. They argue this is another case of political patronage.
quoting a 2017 court ruling that questioned Mlokothi’s honesty, the EFF demands his immediate suspension, and a transparent recruitment process to follow.
If these demands are ignored, the EFF vows to escalate the matter through oversight bodies, public hearings, and possible legal action, insisting that COGTA must serve the people not to protect compromised officials.
