Staff Reporter
The ANC Free State Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) has shortlisted three candidates for the position Mangaung executive mayor left vacant by Olly Mlamleli who was ousted in a vote of no confidence by council last year.
Provincial party secretary Paseka Nompondo told a media briefing on Thursday that the PEC has forwarded the names to the national office for consideration.
He could however not be drawn to name the candidates saying they wanted to allow due processes to unfold.
“Once the internal discussion with the national leadership has been finalised, the ANC will communicate the decision to the community of Mangaung,” said Nompondo.
The media briefing followed a PEC meeting held virtually from February 28 to March 1, 2021.
Asked what key factors were considered in selecting the candidates, the provincial secretary said the shortlisted individuals had proven their capabilities in local governance, among other things.
“The candidates have a proven record in local governance and we are confident of their capabilities,” he said.
“They are loyal members of the ANC who are prepared to subject themselves before the party (for scrutiny).”
Nompondo said the PEC arrived at the three names following serious deliberations on the vacancy of the executive mayor for the metro as it wants a candidate prepared to serve the community.
Mlamleli left office in August last year after some members of the ruling party allegedly voted with the opposition for her ouster.
Following the incident, the ANC said it was embarrassed and disappointed because its own councillors had defied its policy and voted with the opposition.
The party said it would work hard to fix the situation at the municipality which was placed under administration in December 2019.