OFM News understands via well-placed sources that Mashinini's firing stems from the charges faced by his subordinate, department head, Sipho Mtakati who was also fired recently.

Prior to this development, Mashinini was reportedly on sick leave.

Speaking to SAFM this afternoon, Mashinini confirms, that he has received a letter informing him that he is no longer the MEC because the relationship between him and Ntombela has soured.

Spokesperson for Ntombela’s office, Sello Pietersen, tells OFM News the Free State Premier’s decision isn’t an affront to Mashinini per se, but rather a result of her wanting to resolve the issues at Free State municipalities by roping in someone as experienced as Mxolisis Dukwana in the role of MEC of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta).

Thembeni Nxangisa has been moved to the provincial Agriculture department whereas William Bulwana now takes over from Mashinini as the MEC of Police, Roads and Transport.

Previously Pietersen refuted allegations that Dukwana had ascended to the Cogta MEC role.

Mashinini is a staunch known supporter of suspended ANC Secretary-General (SG) Ace Magashule and has been openly seen with Magashule in and outside of the Bloemfontein High Court during the R 255 million asbestos housing audit criminal case.

OFM News