The controversy centres on a reported R3.2m payment to a service provider linked to the Free State Choral, Clap and Tap music programme. Head of department Steve Molato Tshabalala and MEC Ntombizanele Sifuba had reportedly been locked in a dispute over the legitimacy of the transaction, with each accusing the other of procedural wrongdoing.

Tshabalala reportedly alleged Sifuba orchestrated an irregular contract involving the Battle of Municipalities (BOM) project, while Sifuba insisted she acted within her delegated authority.

The dispute apparently escalated when Tshabalala placed senior director Mario Sefo on precautionary suspension amid investigations into the payment. Sifuba, however, rejected the move as ultra vires (beyond the HOD’s authority) and instructed that Sefo be reinstated immediately.

Despite the criticism, Sifuba has strongly denied any wrongdoing. She maintains the appointment of BOM followed established departmental practices, and was intended to fast-track service delivery. BOM was selected because it owns an exclusive concept for similar programmes already implemented in other provinces, eliminating the need for a lengthy tender process, she said.

Launched in June, the Choral, Clap and Tap programme ran for six months across 23 municipalities and 34 towns, culminating in a grand finale held in Bloemfontein in February. It included partnerships with technical and vocational education and training colleges, providing practical training opportunities for students in hospitality, media, and engineering fields.

The department argued the procurement process was conducted through a service level agreement involving the Free State Arts and Culture Council, which then contracted BOM. Officials said this model has been used in previous initiatives, including the Homebrew and community arts centres development programme, without strict adherence to the Public Finance Management Act tender processes.

Meanwhile, Sifuba dismissed claims of improper payments, stating funds were only released after services had been delivered.

‘Sifuba has strongly denied any wrongdoing’

However, the Ancyl has taken a firm stance. Provincial secretary Jackson Mthembu described the situation as a serious governance failure that has brought the department into disrepute. He called on Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae to remove Sifuba pending a full and transparent investigation.

In 2024, a leaked audio recording had implicated Tshabalala in questions surrounding the management of public funds during events overseen by former MEC Limakatso Patricia Mahasa. These included an R8m premier’s soccer tournament and a failed Freedom Day celebration in Thaba Nchu, both of which were criticised for alleged supply chain irregularities.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm