UDM and DA coalition hanging by a thread
Nelson Mandela Bay Deputy Mayor Bobani Mongameli says the future of the coalition between the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) lies in the hands of the coalition leaders.
Bobani has been told by Executive Mayor Athol Trollip that he will be axed from the Mayoral Committee. He currently heads up the public health directorate.
Trollip said the directorate had been of concern for a number of months - given serious allegations of maladministration being investigated.
He said Bobani's public behaviour and conduct had also been unacceptable as a member of the Mayoral Committee.
Bobani has denied all allegations of corruption, and in turn, accused Trollip of lying about him missing Mayoral Committee meetings.
He also responded to Trollip's statement, regarding beginning the process of removing him as Deputy Mayor - through council.
"We have noticed that Trollip has actually made the announcement that next week he is going to remove me. I think he forgot that the DA only has 57 councillors. The DA is not in power - he must work very hard before making the announcement that could backfire," Bobani says.
UDM Leader Bantu Holomisa says the party is not happy with the decision to remove Bobani.
Party leaders are expected to meet soon to discuss the future of the Nelson Mandela Bay coalition.