Note to editors: Please find attached an English soundbite by Cllr Thabo Nthapo and Sesotho by Karabo Khakhau MP.
The Letsemeng Local Municipality is currently embroiled in a state of unrest, triggered by the controversial appointment of Municipal Manager Teboho Maine on 10 January 2024, during a special council sitting by the ANC majority.
The irregular appointment, that the MM allegedly has five years suspended sentence and was convicted of driving under the influence, coupled with internal strife within the ANC caucus, has sparked community outrage. Unfortunately, Speaker Xolani Mthukwane and Chief Whip Abram Lebaka have exacerbated the situation by inciting violence and anarchy.
The ensuing conflict within the ANC factions has not only led to community unrest but has also undermined the credibility of the appointment. The misrepresentation of council deliberations has further fuelled confusion, leaving the community disillusioned.
We firmly assert that Speaker Mthukwane should uphold due process to address his concerns about the appointment. If he is unhappy with the appointment he should follow the appropriate channels and file a formal complaint to the MEC of CoGTA regarding the Municipal Manager’s appointment.
The misguided efforts of the Speaker’s supporters, who claim irregularity in the appointment, are poised to escalate into public violence. This not only endangers the municipal offices but jeopardizes the well-being of the community members. Leaders must act responsibly to protect the interests of residents, the council and the municipality.
We maintain that the Speaker is unfit for office. We will write to the MEC of CoGTA, urging disciplinary action against the Speaker under the Code of Conduct for Councillors. This includes charging him for gross misconduct and tarnishing the municipality’s reputation.
In light of the ANC’s protection of the Speaker during a DA Motion of No Confidence, only to witness his involvement in inciting violence, it is evident that the ANC is losing the trust of the people in Letsemeng. We therefore urge all residents to register to vote in the 2024 National and Provincial Government elections on 3 and 4 February 2024.