This follows explosive allegations that Mojalefa Buti unduly awarded a lucrative R15 million solar farm tender to a company he allegedly co-owns with his wife. It’s understood the project in question was overseen by an eight-member municipal adjudication committee, chaired by Buti himself.

An unsuccessful bidder, Fokeng Legacy, claimed the tender process was manipulated in favour of Buti’s personal business interests. The company alleged that Buti steered the tender outcome, undermining fairness and transparency in the awarding process.

EFF Free State Chairperson Mapheule Liphoko lambasted the conduct, stating Buti misconstrued the purpose of the department, which its aim is to facilitate partnership between private and public to forge a way to improve people’s lives. He said the alleged corruption, linking it to a broader culture of malfeasance within the ANC.

“We are not shocked by these revelations as they depict a clear picture and character of the ANC, an organisation of corrupt individuals that think of nothing but to fill their own stomachs using public purse while our people die of poverty.  

“These allegations undermine the public’s trust in our local government and highlight the need for transparency and accountability in governance. Matjhabeng is already under section 139 administration due to longstanding governance and financial challenges.”

The EFF has demanded a full investigation into the matter and confirmed a criminal case has been opened against Buti. The party also called on the mayor of Matjhabeng, Thanduxolo Khalipha, to initiate disciplinary proceedings and suspend Buti immediately. 

Liphoko stressed the importance of a transparent probe, stating that a thorough investigation into the matter is necessary, while Buti must be suspended to prevent potential interference.

He pledged the party’s commitment to ensure the whistleblower will receive both state protection and community sympathy.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg