The youth of Sabie Ward 06 have voiced strong concerns following the appointment of a new councillor, CLLR M.C Chiloane without any prior consultation with the community. This change comes after the passing of the late Councillor A.S. Mhlanga.

According to residents, the new councillor is from Matibidi and not a resident of Ward 06, which has sparked dissatisfaction and mistrust among community members, particularly the youth.

“Our biggest concern is that we were not informed or consulted about this decision. How can someone from outside lead our ward when she doesn’t even live here or understand our challenges?” said one community member.

The youth argue that leadership should come from someone who has lived experience of the ward’s issues, someone who knows the people and their daily struggles.

Even if the councillor is appointed to serve only for a short term, the community says they want to be part of the decision-making process and elect someone they trust and know personally.

“We want a leader who is one of us, not someone imposed on us,” they said.