Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Gerhard Strydom
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Matlosana has formally withdrawn from the Investigation Committee tasked with probing allegations of wrongdoing by the Executive Mayor. This decision follows mounting evidence that the process has been deliberately manipulated to shield ANC leaders from accountability.
The Committee completed its work in June, with the final report handed to the Speaker on 22 July 2025. A special council meeting was then requested for 23 July, but the Speaker declined, claiming insufficient notice. At the next opportunity, a special council meeting on 25 August, the report was again withheld. After this repeated failure to table the report, it became clear to the DA that the Speaker is playing for time to protect the ANC from further embarrassment amid growing public pressure.
The manipulation stems from deep factional battles within the ANC in Matlosana, where the Speaker and Chief Whip back one grouping and the Executive Mayor leads another. The report also implicates a Mayoral Committee Member aligned with the Speaker’s faction, providing further motive for its suppression. While direct instructions from the ANC provincial leadership cannot be proven, all indications point to political interference aimed at preventing further damage to the party’s image.
The DA cannot continue to participate in a process hijacked by factional agendas. We call on the Speaker to immediately table the report before Council so that due process can be followed and justice is not obstructed.
The DA will continue to pursue every avenue available to ensure accountability and defend the principles of clean, transparent governance for the people of Matlosana.