Media Statement: Apology for media statement issued 9 March 2023 on legal action against Monde Stratu

For Immediate Release
31 August 2023

On 8 March 2023, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Municipal Manager Monde Stratu, was ordered to appear before the Knysna Magistrate’s Court on charges relating to the treatment of properties on the financial statements of the GRDM and Knysna Municipality.

In a statement on 9 March 2023, I stated that I was disappointed at how the matter was handled by law enforcement agencies and the Knysna Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa had advised me that Knysna Municipality had agreed not to pursue any dispute over the properties.

I further stated that this was a malicious prosecution, marred with procedural flaws aimed at tainting the reputation of the two municipalities and embarrassing the Municipal Manager.

I unreservedly apologise for not ascertaining the facts regarding the existing dispute and for casting aspersions on the prosecuting authority and complainant/s.

I fully endorse the rule of law and will fully co-operate with any further investigation on the matter to enable the necessary due process to run its course.

Ald. Memory Booysen
Executive Mayor,
Garden Route District Municipality