The Amajuba District Municipality is expected to elect a new mayor today as councillors gather for a special council sitting.
The meeting comes after months of uncertainty at the district, which has been operating under acting leadership following the departure of its previous mayor.
Today's sitting is expected to determine who will take over the municipality's top political office and lead the district going forward.
The outcome is being closely watched across Newcastle, Dannhauser and eMadlangeni, with residents hoping the appointment of a permanent mayor will bring stability and renewed focus to service delivery and governance.
More details are expected to emerge once council concludes its deliberations.