Lele Mamatu said he was dismissed based on a resignation letter he never wrote – one he alleges was concocted by controversial CEO Malefane Sekoboto, just days after serious allegations surfaced about cooked audit books.

Mamatu said he was slapped with a resignation letter typed by Sekoboto and told to sign in front of the CFO. He refused, only to be blocked by security when he attempted to return to work.

The incident occurred shortly after reports emerged that Centlec personnel were accused of working with officials from the Auditor-General’s Bloemfontein office to manipulate audit outcomes in the utility’s favour.

Board Chairperson Casca Mokitlane confirmed the matter was officially discussed during a board meeting on Thursday (12/6). Sekoboto, the CFO, and the HR manager were given three days to explain what transpired regarding Mamatu’s alleged resignation.

Mamatu had written to the board complaining about the matter caused by Sekoboto. “If the letter is proven to have been forged, an investigation will be initiated and necessary steps will be taken,” said Mokitlane.

Mokitlane also revealed that the Centlec board itself was once denied entry to the company’s premises by security. The board was also booted out of the premises of Centlec not so long ago by security after they were told there is no room available for them to hold their meeting.

The latest board meeting had to go ahead virtually due to the ongoing tension.

Mokitlane disclosed that the board received formal complaints from multiple Centlec managers regarding Sekoboto’s conduct.

“I know three people who wrote to the board and said they are working under difficult conditions. The board did what it should logically do – instruct the HR and remuneration committee to say: ‘Here are issues … being raised by this employee.

“‘We want you as a committee to investigate, and after you bring the conclusion of the report, the board should then make a decision.’”

Sekoboto had previously been accused of nepotism, allegedly appointing his son and five other family members to various positions over the past year. Anonymous insiders also claim he targeted and suspended union shop stewards who questioned the hiring processes.

Sources allege he systematically ousts those who challenge his integrity or leadership style. Centlec said it could not comment on the matter.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg