The DA in Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality is vindicated by the objection of CoGHSTA MEC, Basikopo Makamu, to the appointment of Motlalepula Mphachoe as the acting Municipal Manager.
In a letter dated 10th of April 2025, the MEC notes non-concurrence with the appointment of Mphachoe as the acting Municipal Manager of Ba-phalaborwa Municipality. The reason for the objection is that the incumbent does not meet the minimum requirements to occupy the position. The letter also required a progress report in addressing the matter within seven working days and this was not met.
The DA rejected the decision to appoint Mphachoe from the start and wrote a letter to the MEC Makamu on the matter. We have always held the opinion that she has been ineffective and was failing in her previous position as Senior Technical Services Manager and her appointment will not improve services to the people of Phalaborwa.
What is even more concerning is that the Mayor, Merriam Malatji, has seemingly ignored the letter and has not brought the matter before the municipal council. This is the second occasion she has ignored such communication, the first being of the former Municipal Manager, Dr Pilusa, which she kept to herself for two years.
This situation threatens to affect service delivery and has gone unaddressed as the Political Management Team is on an overseas trip. It is unacceptable that Mayor Malatji has failed to be transparent or accountable and has kept council, the highest decision making body in the municipality, in the dark on this matter.
As a municipal council our duty is to make sure our municipality runs smoothly, and is accountable to the community we serve. We call on MEC Makamu to take further action and urgently address this matter.