GOOD Statement by Evert Manuel,
GOOD Bergrivier Municipality Councillor
07 June 2025
As municipality employees, staff have a core mandate to serve residents with professionalism, integrity, and respect. GOOD is appalled by the conduct of a Bergrivier Municipality staff member who was caught on video giving residents the middle finger.
In the footage circulating on social media, a man wearing an EFF shirt can be seen engaging with a municipal employee in what appears to be a tense exchange. The man is assisting a resident in applying for an indigent subsidy and is simply requesting a step-by-step explanation of the application process, preferably on a municipal letterhead to ensure clarity and accountability.
What is particularly disturbing is that, during this interaction, a female municipal employee is seen making an obscene gesture toward the group of residents.Even during challenging or heated moments, municipal employees are expected to remain composed and treat all members of the public with dignity and respect. This type of behaviour is unacceptable, undermines public trust, and must be addressed by the municipality without delay.
GOOD calls on the Bergriver Municipality to take appropriate disciplinary action and to ensure that all staff are reminded of their duty to serve the public professionally and courteously at all times.
Media enquiries:media@forgood.org.za