The City of Matlosana has been stripped of its executive powers by the North West Provincial Treasury as part of a mandatory provincial intervention.

This drastic measure was taken in response to the Klerksdorp-based municipality’s ongoing financial crisis. It’s been plagued by numerous scandals involving the mismanagement of funds, and the recent arrests of key municipal officials for fraudulent activities.

The Provincial Treasury has invoked Sections 139 (5) (a) and (c) of the Constitution, together with Section 139 of the Municipal Finance Management Act, empowering provincial governments to intervene when a municipality cannot meet its financial obligations, provide basic services, or is in material breach of its responsibilities due to a financial crisis.

Matlosana’s municipal manager and chief financial officer have both been suspended amid allegations of corruption.

DA Cllr Johannes Le Grange said the intervention was expected, given ongoing issues. He’s concerned about the effectiveness of appointing an administrator without appropriate support.

“We aren’t surprised by this decision, especially considering that the executive mayor has been replaced, the (municipal manager) is under suspension, and the financial situation is dreadful.”

But he’s concerned one administrator won’t be enough to replace the entire management. “The administrator would need strong support from multiple departments, including manpower, legal, and HR, to truly stamp their authority.

“Without that, the intervention might not succeed, as we’ve seen in past attempts.”

Le Grange nevertheless welcomed the intervention, hoping an administrator would bring much-needed stability to the municipality.

OFM News reported that Mayor James Tsolela had resigned amidst the corruption allegations. 

He was replaced by mayco member for electrical and engineering, Fikile Mahlophe, who was elected unopposed.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh