In a heartfelt, leaked letter addressed to ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, Lele Mamatu, Centlec communications manager in his capacity as a party member, outlined a series of grievances against senior ANC Mangaung mayor and member of the provincial executive council, Gregory Nthatisi. He claims his actions have left him destitute, unemployed, and fighting for his life.

“They took my job, they took my future away from my kids, they took my family, they took my belongings, they took my hard worked for cars, they took my hard worked for houses. 

“They are no different from Ace Magashule if they claim he did this to them.”

Centlec communications manager Lele Mamatu. Photo supplied 

Mamatu alleged Nthatisi had offered assistance in a matter between himself and Centlec CEO Malefane, but only under certain stringent conditions that would appease Sekoboto.

“He wanted to assist me on certain conditions set by himself that satisfy the person who created this monstrous situation for me.” 

He further accused Nthatisi of involving him in a factional battle between himself and another ANC member, Tsietsi Setona.

“He brought in his battles with Tsietsi Setona to me and is punishing me for that.”

Mamatu painted a grim picture of his current circumstances, stating he has not been paid for three months, his medical aid has been suspended, and his chronic health conditions now pose a serious threat to his life.

‘I have chronic conditions’

“I am sick, and I have chronic conditions. I’m on life-saving treatment, meaning I could lose my life at any given time if help is not sought soon.”

He said on Friday, 3 October, he nearly died after skipping a dialysis session due to lack of funds. Without medical aid, he is now expected to pay R2,500 per session, money he does not have.

“Now that I'm unable to get my health treatment as normal, and I'm facing a high risk of losing my life, something that I made the mayor of Mangaung aware of. God forbid that I lose my life. 

“I must tell you, the ANC that I spent almost half of my life in, when it was not fashionable to be a member and an activist, I don't think my family will allow it to claim me and be part of my funeral. My death would have been facilitated by the ANC itself.”

Mamatu’s legal troubles with Centlec began in June when he was reportedly removed from his position through what he alleges was a fraudulent resignation letter.

OFM News reported Sekoboto had again dismissed Mamatu while hospitalised despite the court later ruling in Mamatu's favour.

On 1 July, the Free State High Court ordered his immediate reinstatement and gave him 14 days to apply for a formal review of the alleged dismissal. However, Sekoboto has since challenged the ruling, leaving Mamatu in limbo.

‘Has not received any salary’

Despite the court ruling, Mamatu said he has not received any salary, a dismissal letter, or formal charges. “I’m without employment now, no charges against me, no dismissal letter, and still no salary for three months now.” 

Asked about the status of his court case with Centlec, Mamatu confirmed he is still waiting for a judgment from the High Court after Sekoboto appeals the court order he must return to work.

The Bloemfontein High Court ruled twice for Mamatu's reinstatement already.

Mamatu’s case comes amid ongoing concerns about political interference in administrative functions in the Free State. The province has faced repeated allegations of blurred lines between political office bearers and municipal or parastatal operations.

Recently, the ANC provincial leadership had suspended the mayor who allegedly defied orders to resign. Free State mayors also wrote to Mbalula to intervene. OFM sent an inquiry to the office of Mangaung mayor. 

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or WhatsApp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg