14 May 2017

Councillors Florah Mpetsane of Matsiloje and Dikitso Mandevu of Gulubane have retained the North East District Council chairperson and vice chairperson seats respectively.
Cllr Mpetsane, who was unopposed, was nominated by four councillors while 17 nomination papers were spoilt while Mr Mandevu was nominated with Ms Mathodi Modisapodi who rejected her nomination hence resulting in the former standing unopposed.

In her acceptance speech, Cllr Mpetsane thanked the councillors for electing her for the second term.
She said it was an indication that the house believed in her abilities to lead them.

However, the chairperson noted that there were challenges, but added that every challenge could be tackled if councillors worked together.
Cllr Mpetsane also noted that the district was facing a water crisis, saying some villages go days without any water inflow.
She said the other challenge was the state of the roads and the welfare of the people who were living in abject poverty.

The chairperson further congratulated her vice for being elected, adding that there was need for teamwork in order to meet their goals and aspirations.
In his remarks, Mr Mandevu also thanked his colleagues  for electing him, adding that showed that they trusted him.
He concurred that there was need for team work and hard work from all the members in order to overcome challenges they face. ENDS