Land committee sacks director

2003-07-17 15:27

Johannesburg - The National Land Committee (NLC) said on Thursday it had dismissed its director for misconduct including insubordination, misrepresentation and financial mismanagement.

"We would like to note that (Zakes) Hlatswayo has not enriched or benefited himself through any of these actions and that no funds have been lost," the NLC said in a statement.

He was dismissed on Wednesday after an extensive disciplinary process.

The NLC said the decision to institute a disciplinary inquiry was taken by the board of directors after an independent attorney investigated allegations made by NLC members and advised the board that in the interests of good governance a disciplinary inquiry was essential.

An independent external chair heard arguments from both parties and found Hlatswayo guilty on several charges of misconduct including insubordination, misrepresentation and financial mismanagement.

It was found he had been dishonest in his presentations to the board and had acted in a manner that "clearly undermined the board and its functions".

His behaviour was also found to be "divisive" and "contrary to the interests of the organization".

The board resolved that they would be bound by the decision of the chair and, on Wednesday, confirmed the decision of dismissal, based on his findings and recommendations.

"The NLC regrets that their longstanding relationship with Mr Hlatswayo has had to be terminated in such a manner," board chairperson Wayne Jordaan said in the statement.

- SAPA