Deputy Speaker, though everything went fairly well during the sitting of the ad hoc committee, being entertained with jazz music and the late arrival of the chairperson of up to 35 minutes on one occasion without any formal apology, the DA will support the candidates listed. However, we would like to draw your attention to candidates such as Mrs Shameela Essack and Ms Natalie Skeepers, who were excellent candidates, but unfortunately did not succeed in comparison to Dr Wallace Amos Mgoqi. [Interjections.]
Though a decision was taken on continuity, we must be cautious to award applicants such as Dr Mgoqi who signed tenders, causing the Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality a total loss of about R12 million during his term of office as municipal manager. According to the applicant, this matter falls within the insurance covering municipal officials for decisions taken whilst in office. This could have been avoided if efficient and effective leadership skills were applied, and the DA is concerned about his appointment and previous lack of judgement. I thank you. [Applause.]