Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Gerhard Strydom
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Matlosana refused to participate in an unlawfully constituted Council meeting that was conducted in violation of Council’s own Rules of Order on Friday, 30 January 2026.
In terms of Section 11 of the Council’s Rules of Order, promulgated as a by-law, all reports to be considered by Council must be served at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. This requirement was blatantly ignored. Certain reports were delivered only 40 hours before the meeting, additional reports were circulated just hours before the meeting, and the final batch was distributed only 45 minutes prior to the meeting.
Despite these clear procedural violations, the majority of the Council voted to disregard their own legislation and proceeded with the meeting. The decision rendered the meeting unlawful. It is a well-established legal principle that any resolution taken by an unlawfully constituted meeting has no force or effect and is therefore invalid.
The Speaker of Council once again demonstrated a failure to properly manage the Council agenda and ensure compliance with applicable legislation. This conduct undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in the governance of Matlosana.
In protest of this unlawful process, the DA in Matlosana withdrew from the meeting and refused to legitimise an illegal proceeding. Approximately 45 minutes after the DA’s departure, the meeting was adjourned.
The DA remains committed to lawful, transparent, and accountable governance and will not hesitate to challenge any process that violates Council rules and the principles of democratic oversight.