Msunduzi takes Laco leader to court over Facebook posts

The Pietermaritzburg High Court has given Laco president Mlungisi Professor Zondi 10 days to take down a series of Facebook posts alleging corruption and misconduct within the municipality, published between December 2025 and February 2026. In a founding affidavit, Msunduzi municipal manager Simon Felani Mndebele said some of the posts contained names, designations and other personal information of employees. Among the statements cited in the court papers is a post claiming that “the councillors in Msunduzi are leading in criminal activities”.

Another alleges that “EPWP workers said that the councillor always wants a portion of their pay when they are paid.” The affidavit also details claims about a municipal employee, named by Laco, who allegedly received two salaries while working for both the municipality and the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta). One post states that during the months the employee worked at Cogta, she continued to receive her municipal salary of R48 772,17 per month. Mndebele said the publication of such information amounts to an unlawful disclosure of personal information and poses risks to employees.

The municipality has also escalated the matter to the Information Regulator. Supporting affidavits have been filed by municipal officials and legal representatives, including Mahendra Kumar Ori, an attorney acting for the municipality, who confirmed his involvement in the matter.