The DA has decried a decision to take eThekwini Municipality councillors to a resort for a planning session while residents deal with ongoing service delivery challenges.
In a statement, the party condemned the decision by Mayor Cyril Xaba and the eThekwini Municipality’s executive committee (Exco) to hold a two-day strategy and budget implementation session at a “luxurious” location in the Drakensberg.
The DA stated that it will not be part of the two-day session, adding that the decision is particularly concerning as the city faces mounting challenges, including poor service delivery. Water supply disruptions across the city have raised the ire of ratepayers.
“This extravagant spending of ratepayers' money is disgraceful,” it said.
The party continued, “At a time when eThekwini residents are struggling with the failures of this administration, ranging from inconsistent water and electricity provision to deteriorating infrastructure, the leadership has chosen to prioritise lavish retreats over addressing the real needs of the people.”
The DA said it had previously proposed that this session should be held in a more cost-effective location within the city.
“The DA believes this is an unacceptable use of public funds, particularly when the city is grappling with the basic responsibilities of governance. We are appalled that these parties, once vocal critics of excess spending, have now abandoned their duty to the people and remain silent on this issue. It is evident that they are more concerned with their own comfort than the well-being of the people they serve.”
IFP councillor and Exco member Mdu Nkosi said: "I am not sure where this claim of a 'luxury' hotel is coming from," Nkosi said.
"This decision was taken at Exco, and they were present at that meeting. It was agreed that a strategic planning session would review achievements and shortcomings."
Nkosi added that it is challenging to devote the required time to such matters if one is in Durban, as distractions can arise from other commitments.
"The DA is just grandstanding; this was not a sudden decision that came out of nowhere. We have previously attended a strategic workshop with them in a hotel in Jozini. What is different now?" Nkosi questioned.
The mayor's office could not be reached for comment by the time of publication.