This comes after Paratlane Motloung of MAP16 was voted in as mayor, replacing ANC councillor and former mayor Malekula Melato, who faced a motion of no confidence on Thursday (26/3). The council meeting at the Phuthaditjhaba multipurpose hall descended into chaos when proceedings were disrupted by two community members who forcefully entered the venue.

The incident followed a reported walkout by ANC councillors after opposition parties tabled the motion of no confidence against Melato. Despite the disruption and, notably, the absence of ANC members, the meeting continued, culminating in Motloung’s election as mayor.

Speaking during a media briefing on Monday (30/3), provincial secretary Polediso Motsoeneng hinted the party is preparing to challenge the outcome, while also indicating Free State cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) MEC Saki Mokwena could be called upon to intervene.

“Regarding the fiasco in Maluti-a-Phofung, you will know that the ANC is not in control of that municipality; we are in coalition with other parties.” If they are not satisfied for some reason, they might be tempted to act in ways to find justification to resist the ANC.

“Remember, this is silly season. We are going to elections, and we will not expect them to always behave in a manner that will provide the ANC a smooth ride.”

Motsoeneng framed the events as part of an escalating “turf war” between the ANC and its coalition partners, warning the situation reflects deeper instability within the municipality.

“There is a turf war that is now taking place between the ANC and its coalition partners in that municipality. We will be engaging partners and resolving whatever issues we had, but some of the actions taken in that municipality were unconstitutional. 

“Municipalities are run by rules; we cannot simply replace a speaker and put a speaker in the chair when there is no agenda item that says people or councillors must prepare themselves for that specific item. Some actions that have taken place are ultra vires, meaning the Cogta MEC will have to come in and ensure there is stability in that municipality,” he added.

Motsoeneng said the party will not engage in the disturbing acts of opposition parties, emphasising they will also have to respect the law when they intervene.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cvs

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