From left: Executive Mayor Cllr Walter Mngomezulu, Speaker of Council Cllr Busisiwe Sekhonde, and Council Whip Cllr Bhekabantu Mtshali. Photo: GSDM Archives (July 2026).
Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) held its final ordinary Council meeting of the sixth local government administration in Ermelo on 21 October 2026, marking the approaching conclusion of the current term of office.
The meeting took place at the municipality's Council Chambers and was chaired by Speaker of Council, Cllr Busisiwe Sekhonde, with Executive Mayor Cllr Walter Mngomezulu leading discussions on matters before Council.
According to a municipal statement issued on 22 October, the sitting provided an opportunity to reflect on Council's work over the past term ahead of the forthcoming Local Government Elections.
Speaker Sekhonde thanked councillors from all political parties for their contributions to democratic governance and constructive engagement. She acknowledged Council's role in providing a platform for differing political views while maintaining a focus on the district's development.
Executive Mayor Mngomezulu also expressed appreciation to councillors, the Mayoral Committee and the municipal administration for their work throughout the term.
He extended his best wishes to political parties preparing to engage communities ahead of the elections.
Council Reflects on Governance and Development
The municipality highlighted several areas of work undertaken during the sixth administration, including the approval of funded budgets, policy frameworks and development plans.
According to GSDM, these decisions supported financial management, cooperation with local municipalities and developmental initiatives across the district.
The municipality also reported maintaining stability at senior management level, with all Heads of Department in place.
Council's Section 79 Committees were acknowledged for their oversight responsibilities and contributions to governance and decision-making.
The municipality reaffirmed its commitment to accountable governance, collaborative leadership and sustainable development as the current administration approaches the end of its term.