Bloemhof deaths: mayor axed

10 June 2014 - 02:12 By Kingdom Mabuza
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Kehapilwe Sehau holds her daughter Boitumelo almost a week after the death of her baby Lehlonolo in Bloemhof
Kehapilwe Sehau holds her daughter Boitumelo almost a week after the death of her baby Lehlonolo in Bloemhof
Image: LAUREN MULLIGAN

The ANC has recalled Lekwa Teemane mayor Rebecca Makodi following the deaths of three babies during a water crisis in Bloemhof a few weeks ago.

The three babies died after drinking contaminated water.

Makodi's sacking came days after municipal manager Andrew Makwapane resigned. North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo announced the ANC's decision at a community meeting on Sunday.

Mahumapelo's spokesman, Sam Mokaila, confirmed the mayor's dismissal, saying it was a decision taken by the ANC and not the provincial government.

ANC provincial spokesman Oupa Matla said the party would release a statement to explain its decision.

Makodi refused to comment, saying she had no authority to speak to the media.

"Speak to the ANC," she said.

North West provincial government spokesman Lesiba Kgwele said R20-million had been set aside to address the water problems in Bloemhof.

"An agreement was reached between us and Water and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane that the required amount will be put aside to solve the water problem," he said.

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