Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Gerhard Strydom
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Matlosana welcomes the decision by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to institute a subpoena hearing against the Executive Mayor of Matlosana, Cllr Fikile Mahlope, scheduled for 12 January 2026, following the municipality’s failure to supply free paraffin to indigent households.
The withholding of paraffin from indigent households, many of whom have no access to electricity, has had a direct and devastating impact on the poorest residents of Matlosana. This is despite the fact that the cost of paraffin is subsidised by national government. The municipality’s failure has deprived vulnerable families of a necessity: the ability to safely prepare food. As a result, households are forced to rely on open wood fires, placing children and elderly residents at serious risk of injury, respiratory illness and other health hazards.
This matter reflects a disturbing pattern by the ANC-led majority in Matlosana of ignoring serious allegations in the hope that they will simply disappear. The DA has consistently raised concerns about governance failures and the ongoing disregard for the rights and dignity of residents.
Equally concerning are unresolved allegations of unauthorised expenditure and the bypassing of supply chain management processes related to this matter. These allegations were referred to an investigating committee mandated by Council in May 2025. Although the committee submitted its final report to the Speaker of Council on 22 July 2025, the report has still not been tabled before Council, and the matter has remained unresolved for months. The ANC majority continues to shield its own from accountability.
The Democratic Alliance will continue to fight for accountability, transparency and the protection of the most vulnerable residents of Matlosana. We call on the Executive Mayor and the ANC-led Council to stop delaying, respect the rule of law and act decisively in the interests of the community.