Nelson Mandela Bay metro is struggling with a leadership vacuum, relying on acting managers beyond legal limits and incurring millions in costs, opposition parties say. The crisis has led to lost funds and service delivery issues, highlighted during a recent parliamentary committee appearance. The DA has lodged a criminal complaint against Mayor Babalwa Lobishe for allegedly misleading Parliament.
The Nelson Mandela Bay municipality has only one permanent executive director, Tabiso Mfeya in human settlements, while seven other departments are led by acting officials who have exceeded the six-month limit for such roles, opposition councillors claim this is unlawful.
Over 29 months, the metro spent R5.8-million on the suspended city manager Noxolo Nqwazi's salary since October 2023, plus acting allowances. Lonwabo Ngoqo, the COO, has been acting city manager since September 30, 2025, with extensions, but operated without formal appointment in January 2026, raising concerns over invalid decisions.
The municipality reportedly lost R1.6-billion in National Treasury roll-over funds due to lacking an accounting officer. EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo criticised the delays, saying residents are denied funds for services. ACDP councillor Lance Grootboom called for Cogta intervention under Section 145.
During the Cogta portfolio committee on March 24-25, Mayor Babalwa Lobishe faced scrutiny over failures including irregular contracts. Her chief of staff Mlungisi Lumka accused her of lying to Parliament. DA MP Marina van Zyl filed a criminal complaint against Lobishe on April 5 under the Powers and Privileges Act.
Committee chair Zweli Mkhize emphasised rigorous accountability. Municipal spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya said permanent appointments are prioritised for stability.
