Zandile Gumede should not be on special leave: Advocate

Gumede is facing charges relating to a multi-million-Rand Durban waste removal tender, dating back to 2016.

The Hawks say service providers were allegedly paid some R208-million, but the municipality did not receive anything in return.

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Gumede made her second appearance in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court this morning.

Gumede and Mthembu’s advocate, Jimmy Howse told the court that the bail conditions do not stipulate that the two should be placed on special leave.

Howse argued that it is not necessary in a criminal case for the accused to be placed on special leave.

Senior State prosecutor, Ashika Lucken said the issue of special leave is not under the court's jurisdiction.

Howse then announced that Gumede would like some bail conditions relaxed so that she can carry out her mayoral duties, provided she does not interfere with witnesses.

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The court agreed to this. However it was emphasised that the court does not have jurisdiction over her special leave.

Howse continued to say Gumede wants to prove her innocence, but does not have enough details from the charge sheet.

Lucken responded by saying they cannot yet reveal the charges, as their investigation is still incomplete.

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