Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Gerhard Strydom
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Matlosana notes with grave concern a series of serious allegations relating to corruption, nepotism, and political interference in the appointment of general workers and administrative staff under the leadership of Executive Mayor, Fikile Mahlope.
If substantiated, these allegations point to a systemic abuse of power, where public employment opportunities are being diverted to politically connected individuals instead of being filled through fair, transparent, and merit-based processes.
Information brought to the DA suggests that Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), councillors, officials, and union representatives may have influenced or directly facilitated the appointment of close relatives, including spouses, siblings, children, and extended family members.
Further allegations indicate that employment opportunities are being distributed through political patronage, with claims that certain councillors are demanding quotas for appointments.
Of particular concern are reports that:
- Senior political office bearers and officials may have secured employment for multiple family members
- Human Resources processes may have been manipulated or bypassed
- Union structures may be complicit in enabling irregular appointments
- Individuals are being placed in positions through political instruction rather than lawful recruitment procedures
If proven true, this conduct represents a clear violation of the principles of good governance, fairness, and ethical leadership. It also directly undermines the rights of qualified residents who are unfairly excluded from employment opportunities.
The DA therefore calls for:
- An independent forensic investigation into all recent appointments of general workers and administrative staff
- Full transparency on recruitment processes, including shortlists and selection criteria
- The immediate suspension of any officials implicated in interference, pending the outcome of investigations
- Consequence management for any political office bearers or officials found guilty of nepotism or corruption
- A comprehensive review of recruitment policies to ensure full compliance with legislation and to restore transparency and fairness
The people of Matlosana deserve a municipality that serves residents with integrity, not one that operates as a vehicle for patronage and self-interest.
The DA remains committed to exposing corruption and restoring integrity in local government. We will utilise all available oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability and protect the rights of residents.