Naidoo ready to move on

Feeling somewhat vindicated by the withdrawal of charges laid against him in April this year, Lephalale municipal manager, Bob Naidoo, says he is grateful for the experience he gained and the part he played in helping Lephalale grow into what one day will be a major energy hub in South Africa.
Naidoo spoke to Northern News this week after news of his resignation stunned the Lephalale community. Since being placed on special leave in April following an investigation into possible maladministration under his leadership, he admits things have not been easy.
“I am glad that it is over; I can honestly say that I have never stolen a cent and that I have always done my best in serving the Lephalale community,” he said.
“In a sense I feel vindicated by the fact that the Lephalale council has withdrawn all the charges against me. It gives me a clean slate to move forward.
“ I decided to resign after 20 years of serving within local government because the nature of my work required of me and my family to move around a lot. My kids are at such an age that they need more stability when it comes to schooling and friends,” he explained.
Naidoo says he hopes to still be involved in local government by means of consulting. “Eventhough I will leave
Lephalale soon, my family will stay on until the end of the year so that my kids can finish their school year," he says, adding that he is excited about the future of Lephalale and the stakeholders who are involved in seeing this town grow.
Naidoo also wishes to thank the community for their support and especially  Pastor Willem Papo for his wise council and support during this time.