New eMakhazeni speaker pledges to uphold standards set by predecessor

BELFAST — The newly appointed Speaker of Emakhazeni Local Municipality, Cllr Seun Mthimunye, has pledged to build on the work of his predecessor, Lucky Ndinisa, saying he “raised the bar” for ethical conduct and stability in council.

Mthimunye was appointed on Thursday, 14 May 2026, following Ndinisa’s resignation on 30 April. Ndinisa left the municipality to take up the role of African National Congress (ANC) Elections Manager in Mpumalanga.

Speaking to Highveld Chronicle after his installation, Mthimunye said he would rely on the ANC, the municipality, council and the broader community for support in carrying out his duties.

“My predecessor did wonderful and excellent work in this office,” he said. “He brought stability and order, and ensured that ethics were followed in council. He raised the bar so high, and I will need support to carry out my duties with the same standard.”

Mthimunye thanked his party and the municipality for having faith and trust in him. He said his immediate focus would be improving communication and strengthening relationships with municipal stakeholders.

He committed to ensuring councillors act responsibly and comply with the Municipal Structures Act. Building partnerships with the private sector was also among his priorities, he added.

“They need to come on board to assist in the service delivery mandate of the municipality,” he said. “The main goal is to build relationships with various sectors of society and make sure they come on board.”

A Sakhelwe resident from Dullstroom, Mthimunye has served the municipality for nearly two decades. He joined as a process controller in the Water and Electrical Department in 2008 before being elected as Ward 4 councillor in 2016.

He was later deployed to the mayoral committee as MMC for Financial Services and also served as MMC for Technical Services. He returned as MMC for Financial Services in 2021 and held the position until his recent appointment as Speaker.

Mthimunye called on Emakhazeni residents to support his office and engage with it openly. He promised to create a platform for transparent engagement and timely resolution of issues.

“Our interest is to deliver services,” he said. “The office of the Speaker makes it easier for council to communicate with stakeholders and work together for the benefit of Emakhazeni residents.”