Zandile Gumede served as Executive Mayor of eThekwini (Durban) from August 2016 until her recall in August 2019. Arrested by the Hawks in May 2019 for orchestrating approximately R430 million in rigged Durban Solid Waste tender contracts. Faces 2,000+ charges of fraud, corruption, racketeering, and money laundering alongside 17 co-accused. Aligned with the ANC's RET faction, she framed her prosecution as political persecution. Despite criminal charges, the ANC placed her on the KZN provincial legislature list. Trial ongoing in Durban High Court.