The George Council is expected to support a recommendation for disciplinary action against DA Councillor Raybin Figland. While GOOD has long called for accountability, the DA’s sudden willingness to act should not be mistaken for integrity; it is political self-preservation, not principle.
The disciplinary recommendation stems from a complaint submitted by FF+ Councillor Gert Van Niekerk, which highlights conflicting findings between investigations, including the DA’s own Federal Legal Commission process.
The initial DA findings painted a deeply disturbing picture. Figland was found to have engaged in grossly inappropriate conduct and was described as someone who “lies without hesitation.” Yet despite this, and despite the seriousness of the allegations, the DA lifted his suspension and allowed him to remain in office.
In December 2024, Figland resigned as Deputy Mayor moments before a GOOD-led motion of no confidence was to be debated. He has remained a councillor and the DA has continued to treat this as an internal party matter rather than a serious breach of public trust.
Even ahead of this item, Figland has claimed the DA’s recommendations made by Glynnis Breytenbach, George Michalakis and Marius Victor are confidential and an internal party matter.
GOOD remains firm in the belief that councillors are not simply party operatives, they are public servants entrusted with power and responsibility. The allegations against Figland, including allegations of extorting explicit images from a schoolgirl, are not only morally reprehensible but represent a gross violation of the values expected of elected representatives.
While Figland is no longer Deputy Mayor, he continues to serve in council and the people of George deserve to know whether those representing them are fit to hold office. We call on all councillors to support the recommendation for disciplinary action. The DA’s vote will not absolve them of the months they spent enabling and covering for Figland. Their about-turn is not a sign of accountability, but a desperate attempt to claim the moral high ground now that Figland is no longer politically useful.
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