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The DA commends the swift action of the Umhlathuze Fire Department in tackling the substantial blaze that tore through a section of the civic centre yesterday morning.

While details remain under investigation, it is believed the fire may have broken out in the kitchen area and spread to the adjacent dining hall. The building was evacuated the moment the fire was detected and all staff and members of the public were safely escorted from the building.

On-site oversight by the DA confirmed the fire was relatively quickly contained and that fire services performed admirably.

Unfortunately, the ANC was very quick in spreading untruths – in what is an IFP-run municipality - simply to score cheap political points. No office was, in fact, damaged and there was no loss of any critical documentation.

The City Manager has requested the Station Commander to facilitate a full investigation into the source of the fire. The investigation will be conducted by professionals and the municipality will share the outcome of such findings in an open and transparent manner. The DA will continue to monitor the investigations and report back on the findings.

While there was little interruption in municipal services, the fire will no doubt come with budgetary considerations. The DA will be fully involved in oversight over repairs and plans to refurbish and inspect all fire suppression systems in the council precinct.

Issued by Andre de Lange - Umhlathuze Councillor