GOOD Statement by Keagen Gertse,
GOOD Drakenstein Councillor & Caucus Whip
7 March 2024
The DA’s decision to redeploy the recently axed Drakenstein Mayor, Conrad Poole, to the Western Cape Provincial Legislature, is a slap in the face of the people of the province.
The DA clearly has no problem providing a soft landing for political cadres who have corruption allegations to answer for instead of holding them accountable. Something they criticize the ANC for doing.
Poole was just recently ousted as Mayor of Drakenstein when opposition parties came together with DA councillors to remove him after losing faith and confidence in his ability to lead the Municipality. Poole was removed as Executive Mayor following a Drakenstein Council investigation which found prima facie evidence of misconduct.
Instead of using this as an opportunity to reevaluate the public servants they entrust with serving the people of South Africa, the DA instead rewards incompetence with a cozy seat in the Provincial parliament.
Poole’s resignation from Council places him outside of the Council’s jurisdiction for the disciplinary proceedings which the investigation recommended as a result of the prima facie evidence of an alleged breach of the councillor’s Code of Conduct.
It seems the DA will do anything to avoid the allegations being tested and has failed to act being openly and transparently.
We have written to the Speaker of Council requesting him to confirm that Poole is not being protected by the DA or the Council and that the investigation done by the Council will be reported to the Hawks for investigation. If we do not have that confirmation within 48 hours we will refer the matter to the Hawks ourselves.
For parties such as the DA, holding their own accountable means a push up the ladder of political prominence just to save face in front of the electorate who deserves much more.
Media Enquiries:
Keagen Gertse, GOOD Drakenstein Councillor & Caucus Whip
Cell: 081 063 7749
Email: keagengertse@gmail.com
Janke Tolmay, GOOD Media Manager
Cell: 073 367 1223
Email: janke@forgood.org.za