I need a public apology - Basson
03 August 2021 | Local News
Elizabeth Joseph
KEETMANSHOOP
Keetmanshoop municipality CEO Desmond Basson resumes work today after three months of administrative leave following allegations of corruption and unlawful acts.
He was replaced by the late Reginald Brandt as acting CEO, who died last Wednesday at a private hospital of Covid-19.
According to municipality spokesperson Dawn Kruger, they have not received permission to discuss Brandt’s death, but have since sent out an obituary.
Basson said he has mixed feelings regarding his return.
"I was saddened to hear about the passing of my colleague. He made great strides and had big plans with the municipality. There were also many projects he wanted to embark on.
“I, however, have mixed feelings about returning to my office. During my time off, I encountered a lot of harassment and judgement from not only my colleagues but from the community at large," he said.
‘I am innocent’
Meanwhile, the CEO said he has yet to receive a statement or letter regarding what the investigations delivered.
"The outcome is clear and I am innocent, otherwise they wouldn't have called me to resume my position as CEO of the municipality."
He added that for him to feel more secure, he wants an apology from the council and for them to sign a contract in which he will state the terms on which he is returning.
"I need a public apology from the council and a signed contract which states that something of this nature will never transpire again," he said.
KEETMANSHOOP
Keetmanshoop municipality CEO Desmond Basson resumes work today after three months of administrative leave following allegations of corruption and unlawful acts.
He was replaced by the late Reginald Brandt as acting CEO, who died last Wednesday at a private hospital of Covid-19.
According to municipality spokesperson Dawn Kruger, they have not received permission to discuss Brandt’s death, but have since sent out an obituary.
Basson said he has mixed feelings regarding his return.
"I was saddened to hear about the passing of my colleague. He made great strides and had big plans with the municipality. There were also many projects he wanted to embark on.
“I, however, have mixed feelings about returning to my office. During my time off, I encountered a lot of harassment and judgement from not only my colleagues but from the community at large," he said.
‘I am innocent’
Meanwhile, the CEO said he has yet to receive a statement or letter regarding what the investigations delivered.
"The outcome is clear and I am innocent, otherwise they wouldn't have called me to resume my position as CEO of the municipality."
He added that for him to feel more secure, he wants an apology from the council and for them to sign a contract in which he will state the terms on which he is returning.
"I need a public apology from the council and a signed contract which states that something of this nature will never transpire again," he said.
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