By REGINALD KANYANE
11 July 2025- The North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi has expressed deep concern after disruptions at a meeting meant to officially communicate the invocation of Section 139(1)(a) of the Constitution at Mamusa Local Municipality as resolved by the Provincial Executive Council.
In an unprecedented turn of events, community members demanded to meet Molapisi directly reporting alleged failure by council to follow due process in the appointment of senior officials and a lack of service delivery amongst others.
Molapisi further said he takes a ‘dim view’ and strongly condemns actions by community members. He added that although disappointed by the disruption, he still chose to listen to the community’s concerns.
“We urge them to allow the Department of COGTA to do its work and help fix the problems. In respect of matters currently before the court, including the reappointment of the Municipal Manager, we urge the community to allow due legal process to take its course, await outcomes and respect courts systems.
“An urgent meeting with councillors will be convened within seven days to address outstanding issues. In light of today’s events, I am more determined to carry out the Provincial Executive Council’s decision. The decision of EXCO will be communicated to the council and implemented without fail,” said Molapisi.
IMATU branch secretary in Schweizer Reneke, David Motswana said as the union, they welcome the decision. Motswana said two days ago, municipal employees embarked on a protest over unpaid salaries.
“It is not for the first time that municipal employees go months without getting their salaries. However, some municipal employees embarked on a protest because they do not want the legitimate Municipal Manager, Rantsho Gincane in the cocoon,” he said.
SAMWU branch secretary, Lebogang Tutubalang shared the same sentiments. Tutubalang said: “You will remember that Section 139(1)(a) of the South African Constitution allows a provincial government to intervene in a municipality when it fails to fulfill its executive obligation.
“This intervention involves issuing a directive to the municipal council, instructing them on how to meet their responsibilities. So, we will not stand in the way of MEC to implement a mechanism to ensure the municipality upholds its constitutional and legal duties.”
Tutubala said the implementation was done after analysis and they welcome that.
The Guardian 