The Welkom-based Matjhabeng Municipality has sent a stern warning to workers who will be participating in planned protests.

Irate workers have once more made their intentions clear against cadre deployment as they are calling for Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha to vacate office. 

Thanduxolo Khalipha, Matjhabeng mayor. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Municipal manager, Lonwabo Ngoqo said the municipality has been in numerous talks with the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) to address its demands.

While progress has been made, Ngoqo said the stumbling block between the two parties has been the demand to remove Khalipha from office. 

SAMWU provincial secretary Tiisetso Mahlaltsi previously told OFM News they have been raising issues concerning Khalipha’s alleged interference. This is whilst one of the angry workers alleged that the mayor is enjoying political protection while misusing municipal resources.

Matjhabeng workers protesting. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

ActionSA Free State chairperson Patricia Kopane had also called for the axing of Khalipha, saying Matjhabeng residents have lost confidence in his ability to run the municipality and his capacity to give them opportunities to grow, develop and break the cycle of poverty.

Since the beginning of January last year, service providers have reportedly withdrawn a staggering R300 million from municipal bank accounts. 

This came to light after Khalipha refused to compensate service providers who have completed work for the municipality, resulting in significant financial losses, including a reported R40 million due to legal costs.

‘A protest is planned for Monday for the immediate resignation of Khalipha’

“It is essential to emphasise that the authority over the appointment and removal of the mayor lies within the jurisdiction of the ruling party, which has assigned the mayor to our municipality. 

"Adhering to legislative guidelines outlined in the Municipal Structures (Act No. 177 of 1998), the municipality has clarified its limited authority in this matter, underscoring that the final decision rests with the ruling party,” added Ngoqo.

He further said the strike has taken on a more political landscape as workers reached agreements with management on various matters excluding the removal of the mayor. Ngoqo sent a stern warning to workers who are planning to be part of the scheduled protest.

‘Business as usual ahead of the planned protests’

“In preparation for the strike, we strongly encourage all municipal employees to adhere to their regular work schedules. It is important to emphasise that the 'no work, no pay' rule will be strictly enforced, and absentee employees may face financial consequences,” Ngoqo added.

Meanwhile, the municipality announced that it will be business as usual ahead of the planned protests. However, residents have been cautioned to anticipate limitations due to the expected reduction in the number of workers.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mc