This comes after protests broke out over service delivery in Phuthaditjhaba and surrounding areas, last week. Businesses, schools, and taxis came to a standstill when community members barricaded roads with burning tyres and rocks.

Cogta spokesperson, Ntai Mokgitli, said that MEC Sisi Ntombela will recommend that the Maluti-a-Phofung municipality be placed under administration at the next executive council meeting.

The recommendation will also be processed at the department’s national branch.

Maluti-a-Phofung reportedly owes Eskom close to R2 billion for bulk electricity supply and owes the water board over R200 million.

“She will then talk to Exco to begin the process and then engage further with the senior department of Cogta  to institute Section 139(b) at Maluti-a-Phofung,” said Mokgitli.

According to Mokgilti, the decision has not been implemented yet.

Last April, Cogta placed the Mafube municipality, which includes Frankfort, Villiers and Tweeling, as well as the Masilonyana municipality, which includes Theunissen and Brandfort, under administration as well.

OFM News