Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Johannes le Grange
The DA in Matlosana is deeply disturbed by the failure of the current troika to act against Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mercy Mpetla, who is facing additional charges of fraud and corruption relating to the service provider Variegated (Pty) Ltd.
In a court appearance on 19 March 2025, the DA learnt that on 9 and 10 January 2024, the CFO allegedly coerced junior finance employees into producing fraudulent goods received notes (GRNs). No items were delivered, yet payments amounting to R2.9 million were processed.
Court proceedings further revealed that the same modus operandi was followed in August 2023 (R2.622 million) and October 2023 (R2.62 million), with payments once again made without any goods being received.
On 27 March 2025, the DA wrote to the Executive Mayor, Cllr FC Mahlophe, and the Municipal Manager, Ms Lesego Seametso, demanding that these charges—brought forward by the Hawks—be tabled before council for discussion and consideration. Shockingly, this regulatory request has been ignored by the Municipal Manager, the Executive Mayor, the Chief Whip, and the Speaker, allegedly due to threats and intimidation from the CFO.
It has further been alleged that proceeds from these irregular payments were used to fund ANC activities, including:
- Sponsorship of ANC councillors’ trip to the Mbombela conference.
- Sponsorship of an ANC trip and golf tournament in Cape Town in January 2025, attended by the Chief Whip, Rose Thabanchu, MMC JM Masupa, Cllr MN Mbele, Cllr SL Jonas, and others.
On 23 August 2025, DA Member of Parliament Hon. J Adriaanse wrote to the MEC of COGTA, urging intervention in this ongoing obstruction of justice, which clearly violates Regulation 5 of the Local Government Disciplinary Regulations for Senior Managers.
Corruption of this scale directly robs residents of Matlosana of services, jobs, and economic opportunities. Instead of turbocharging our economy, funds meant to improve people’s lives are being looted for political trips and luxuries. The DA will continue to demand accountability, action, and justice for the people of Matlosana.