Over 450 workers of the Trompsburg-based Kopanong Local Municipality haven’t been paid their salaries for the month of September 2022.

ALSO READ: Free State municipality's financial woes continue

The municipal spokesperson, Solomzi Phama, confirms that the municipality hasn’t been able to meet its obligation of paying workers’ salaries as a result of cash flow challenges. Phama says the political and administrative leadership is doing all it can to ensure that salaries are paid and to correct the situation even for future purposes.

“We have approached the provincial Cooperative Governance (Cogta), Treasury and Premier's Office for assistance. A financial recovery plan is being finalised as requested by the Deputy Minister of Cogta for possible assistance,” Phama adds.

In 2021, the municipality failed to pay its 450 workers and creditors for at least 3 months after a Free State High Court judge attached its bank account due to its debt of more than R25 million.

ALSO READ: Kopanong account attachment uplifted

However, according to the municipal council speaker, Jerry Moitse, the municipality is reportedly owed R45 million by the government in rates and taxes.

Moitse told OFM News that the national government owes the municipality a sum of R25 million, and the remainder is owed by the provincial departments. He said on numerous occasions municipalities are dragged to the committees to explain their shortcomings but yet the same government that always preaches good governance fails to adhere to its own rules and act in accordance.

“Since 2016, we have been struggling to get the provincial and national departments to settle their accounts. There has been no change so far. It is very worrying to always hear how Kopanong municipality has no money but it is the same province that owes the council a lot of money. The committee promised to give feedback within seven days, and 6 months later nothing happened. With R45 million, Kopanong can cover five months’ salaries and then the council does not have to use projects' funds to pay salaries,” Moitse said.

ALSO READ: Government owes Free State municipality millions

This is the same municipality which was hit by a mine wall burst disaster on 11 September 2022, when houses, cars, and infrastructure were destroyed by the mudslide which came from the mine. 

ALSO READ: Houses, cars swept away by strong stream of water in Free State town | WATCH

The disaster also claimed the lives of 2 people, with 1 still missing, scores were injured, and over 200 people were displaced or homeless after more than 100 houses were destroyed.

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OFM News