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Former FTLM officers allege nepotism, withheld certificates in R2m training saga

BURGERSFORT - A group of former traffic postmen are demanding immediate reinstatement by the Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM), claiming they were “used and dumped” after completing a R2-million traffic warden training programme without receiving their certificates. 

The dispute stems from 2022, when the group says they were recruited by the municipality as traffic postmen and sent to Polokwane to complete an accredited Traffic Wardens course. 

“We joined the municipality in 2022 and were taken to Polokwane to complete the Traffic Wardens course. But we left the training academy without graduating,” said Mokale Kopano Matheba, speaking on behalf of the affected officers. 

According to Matheba, the group could not graduate because the Provincial Commissioner of Police was unable to sign off their certificates, as the FTLM couldn’t submit their appointment letters deliberately.

“Without those appointment letters, the Commissioner couldn’t issue the certificates,” he said. 

The group returned to the municipality and continued duties as traffic postmen, despite not holding official warden certificates. 

In 2024, the municipality issued an internal memo selecting candidates for National Traffic Diplomas in Mpumalanga. Matheba and his colleagues believed they were part of the programme. 

However, in July 2025 their contracts were terminated. The municipality reportedly told them that traffic wardens had already been appointed, and that the group was “undergoing training” for the National Diploma in Mpumalanga. 

Matheba disputes this. “Our contracts were terminated without proper notice. The municipality refuses to give us our original certificates from the provincial training.” 

Matheba alleges the process was deliberately mishandled to benefit officials’ relatives.

“There is a lot of corruption and nepotism taking place there. The officials who sabotaged us want to take their friends and families to continue with the Traffic Diploma programme. We were just fronts paving the way for their people without us knowing,” he said. 

He claims the group approached their trade union for assistance but were turned away. “We were told the union was mandated by seniors within the municipality that they must not entertain us,” he said.   

Attempts to resolve the matter internally, he added, have failed. “We approached all avenues of the municipality but we were never assisted. They did this deliberately because they want to create a way for their families and friends,” Matheba said.   

The group is now calling for urgent intervention. “We demand the municipality reinstate us to our traffic postmen duties with immediate effect. We won’t stop fighting until we are redeployed. What they did to us is unconstitutional and they know it. We can’t be appointed and later dumped because they want to replace us with their people when things get better,” Matheba said. 

At the time of publication, FTLM had not responded to requests for comment on the issues. 

Crisis at Groblersdal Hospital, community demands urgent MEC intervention

GROBLERSDAL - Mounting frustration over service delivery at Groblersdal Hospital has prompted a formal appeal to the Limpopo MEC for Health, Dieketseng Mashego, with community members citing long waiting times, critical staff shortages, and a lack of essential medication.

In a letter addressed to Mashego, Seun Mogotji, a community leader, outlined what they described as “systemic failure” at the facility serving Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM). The hospital, which caters to a large rural population, is reportedly operating under severe strain.

“Residents are increasingly reporting long waiting times, staff shortages, lack of essential medication, and deteriorating infrastructure. Patients are often left unattended for extended periods, and in some cases, are forced to seek private healthcare services they cannot afford,” Mogotji said.

In his appeal stated in the letter, Mogotji calls for immediate provincial intervention in five key areas, which include urgent assessment of staffing levels and deployment of additional healthcare professionals, reliable supply of essential medicines and medical equipment and a full audit and urgent repairs to deteriorating facilities.

He also calls for transparent communication with the community on turnaround plans and a clear timeline for improvements and accountability mechanisms.

“The people of Elias Motsoaledi Municipality deserve access to quality healthcare services as guaranteed by the Constitution. Continued neglect will only deepen inequality and erode public trust in government institutions,” Mogotji wrote.

The letter requests a formal response from the MEC’s office within 14 days outlining steps to address the issues. It also extends an offer to “engage constructively” on interventions to restore dignity and efficiency at the hospital.

Groblersdal Hospital is a critical healthcare facility for surrounding rural communities. Community members say the current conditions compromise both patient dignity and health outcomes.

The Limpopo Department of Health had not responded to media queries at the time of publication.

Moutse residents betrayed by R143 million drought relief failure

MOUTSE - Communities of Dennilton in Moutse and surrounding areas of Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM), are still reeling from the harsh reality that despite a R143 million allocation for drought relief in 2020, they are yet to see the benefits of this funding.

The project, aimed at addressing the area’s crippling water scarcity, has been marred by allegations of corruption and mismanagement, leaving residents who are facing extreme draught frustrated and desperate.

The Moutse Drought Relief Project, initiated by the Department of Water and Sanitation, aimed to address the area’s crippling water scarcity.

Former Minister of Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, allocated the funds to Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) to implement the project to address long-standing water shortage in the area.

The Department of Water and Sanitation allocated the R143 million in 2020 to implement various measures, including drilling and refurbishing boreholes, installing water tanks, and procuring water tankers.

The project was set to be implemented by Lepelle Northern Water, with the aim of supplying water to drought stricken villages.

However, community members have raised concerns about corruption and non-functionality of the infrastructure, leading to an investigation by then Minister of Water and Sanitation Senzo Mchunu.

The investigation found that while the procurement process was irregularity-free, the delivery of water was infrequent, and some water tanks had been stolen.

The report highlighted the need for accountability and action to address the ongoing water scarcity.

According to residents, the promised water relief has not materialized at all and they are still facing extreme water scarcity over the years.

Sibusiso Mahlangu, a local resident, expressed his dismay. “It is been years, and we are still waiting for water. We have been told that the money was allocated, but we see nothing. We share water with animals from the river because there is no alternative,” he said.

Mahlangu said they have tried to escalate their pleas to authorities but they were given a cold shoulder.

“No one answers to our pleas. We are tired of empty promises. We need water, not just words. The drought relief project has become a symbol of neglect, and we are left to wonder what happened to the money,” he said.

Rebecca Matea, another resident, said water scarcity challenges are far from over in Moutse because of corruption and maladministration from authorities.

“It is heart-breaking to see our children struggling to access clean water. We have tried to raise our concerns with the authorities, but nothing seems to happen. It’s like we are invisible,” she said.

When approached for a comment, SDM Spokesperson, Lemson Moropjane, said: “We are still investigating the issue and can only comment upon receipt of a comprehensive report.”

Elias Motsoaledi Ward Committee members honoured for service

The Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM) convened its final Ward Committee Conference, bringing together dedicated ward committee members to reflect on their achievements and discuss ways to strengthen local democracy.

The event, held on Tuesday 17 March 2026 at the Forever Resort in Bela-Bela, was an opportunity for the municipality to express its gratitude to these community champions.

Addressing the gathering, EMLM Mayor Cllr David Tladi praised the committee members for their tireless efforts in bringing democratic processes closer to communities.

"Over the years, ward committee members have worked tirelessly to bring democratic processes closer to communities, acting as the foot soldiers of service delivery. Despite the challenges municipalities often face, their commitment to putting communities first and building a better life for all remains highly commendable," he said.

The Mayor's sentiments were echoed throughout the conference, with discussions focusing on the importance of ward committees in local governance.

Established by municipalities across South Africa, these committees are designed to foster community participation and give residents a stronger voice in decision-making processes.

Elected by their communities, ward committee members serve as representatives of specific wards within a municipality, facilitating communication between the community and the municipality, identifying and prioritizing community needs, and advising the ward councillor on local issues.

The final EMLM Ward Committee Conference in the current term was a celebration of the achievements of these dedicated individuals, and a reminder of the importance of community participation in local governance.

As their terms come to an end, these members may choose to stand for re-election or make way for new representatives, depending on the outcome of upcoming local elections.

Mayor Tladi expressed his gratitude to the ward committee members for their dedication and passion, noting that their efforts have ensured community voices are heard and needs are met.

The conference also served as a reminder of the upcoming Voter Registration Weekend for the 2026/2027 Local Government Elections, scheduled for 20 and 21 June 2026. Mayor Tladi encouraged all residents to participate in shaping the municipality's future, emphasizing the importance of having their voices heard.

ActionSA demands State of Emergency on Sekhukhune drinking water crisis

SEKHUKHUNE - ActionSA political party in Limpopo, has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to urgently declare a State of Emergency on the water crisis in Sekhukhune, citing it as a humanitarian emergency rather than a mere service delivery challenge.

According to the party, Sekhukhune Region is currently facing a catastrophic water crisis, with communities left without reliable access to water for years.

The party demands immediate action to address the crisis, citing water as a constitutional right.

Tonic Manchidi, ActionSA Treasurer in Limpopo, has accused Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM) for consistently failed to provide sustainable water solutions to its residents.

“The Water Tankering Programme, intended as a temporary relief measure, has collapsed due to corruption and abuse. Municipal officials have allegedly colluded with service providers to steal public funds, resulting in water trucks arriving irregularly or not at all. This has forced residents to fend for themselves in unsafe and degrading conditions,” Manchidi said.

He added that during the party’s door-to-door engagements in Ga-Masemola and Mphane Villages, ActionSA witnessed first-hand the daily struggles of residents.

“Children walk long distances to rivers to fetch water, exposing themselves to danger and missing school. In Phokwane, residents collect water from dangerous areas near Lefakong Mountain. Tragically, the crisis has already claimed a life, Mr Jerry Matlala, a resident living with a disability, who lost his life after falling into a river while trying to access water,” informed Manchidi.

He said water crisis in the region has taken a significant economic and emotional toll on the community.

“With high unemployment and deep poverty in Sekhukhune, many families cannot afford to buy water. The lack of water deepens poverty and inequality, forces children to miss school, undermines health and dignity, and strangles small businesses and local livelihoods,” explained Manchidi.

He called for the municipality to prioritize urgency of the situation and supply people with drinkable water.

"The people of Sekhukhune cannot continue to live like this. The time for intervention is now. We call on President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare a State of Emergency on the water crisis in Sekhukhune, deploy national resources to ensure transparent and reliable emergency water supply, investigate and prosecute corruption linked to water tankering and infrastructure sabotage, and fast-track long-term water infrastructure solutions for the region," Manchidi said.

Affiliation issues halts Sekhukhune Regional Football League kick-off

SAFA Sekhukhune has delayed the resumption of the Hollywoodbets Sekhukhune Regional Football League due to lack of affiliation from participating football teams.

Mayor officially hands-over Maepa Access road project

MAEPA

Gone are the days when Maepa residents will travel on dusty and undriveable roads  in the village.

The community led by the traditional authority representatives and the local councilor  were the recipients of the 4.5 kilometres Maepa Access road  on Wednesday February 11.

 Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality’s mayor Eddie Maila officially handed the road project to more than 200 delighted community members.

Handing over the completed project, Maila thanked the community of Maepa for their support during the erecting of the road.

"We are gathered here today to officially hand over the Maepa road project to the community. This is an honour and privilege for this council to fulfil the promise made to change the lives of our communities. The community of Maepa has been starved off service delivery for many years and here we are today to hand over this well constructed road project," said the mayor.

He thanked the community leaders and the tribal council for working with government to make this project a success. 

"We are also happy that during the implementation of the project, many people benefitted in terms of employment and business opportunities. This project is going to change the lives of many people in different ways. The face of this village has completely changed as access has been improved and even the travel distance from the main road into the village. Many economic activities will take place due to accessibility and turn around time. ."

Maila made an appeal for the community to take care of this project and increase its lifespan. "We must desist from damaging infrastructure when we are confronted by challenges. The doors of the Office of the Mayor are always opened for any engagement at any given time. We cannot afford to damage our legacy, but our main objective is to guard against any vandalism especially on infrastructural projects."

He commended the Maepa people for playing an important role in ensuring that the project is not delayed during the implementation. He said this has assisted the FTLM to spend 100% on both MIG and INEP projects.

Representing the communities, resident, Paulinah Coetzer, thanked the FTLM for  promising them a road, and delivering on their promise.

“As a community, we are excited about this milestone, we will easily manoeuvre around the village. We are also satisfied with the quality of the road made by the contractor.

“We are relieved that FTLM has finally heeded our pleas for  a proper road. ”

The Maepa road project started on 2 September 2024, it  was erected by Tseamiso Trading Contractor.

The contractor thanked the community for supporting them in orchestrating the successful project.  

Bothashoek’s Illegal water connections a major safety concern

BOTHASHOEK

Some residents in Bothashoek, Ward 20 of the Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality are still struggling to access clean water.

 According to residents, illegal water connections in the area have left many villages with dry taps.

Residents have been without running water for quite some time now because of these actions. Not only is illegal connections depriving residents of water, they also pose danger to communities, especially children.

One of the affected residents, explained that the problems started when locals and business people connected to the main pipeline on the Bothashoek road, which links to the R37.

"Illegal connections were made, but because the Sekhukhune District Municipality is failing to provide clean water to the residents, none of the municipal workers intervened, they folded their arms and ignored these illegal deeds," alleged one of the residents in Mahubahuba.


Another local resident complained that the illegal connections leads to water spillage all over the ground because pipes were inserted illegally and directed to people’s households.

“We are all deeply affected by this, because when people start taking matters into their own hands, they ruin the water infrastructure. We need the SDM to take accountability and ensure they bring water to the people” added the community members.

On 18 November 2025, this publication forwarded queries to the spokesperson for the SDM, Lemson Moropjane, part of the questions included reasons for the shortage of water in Bothashoek, as well as the SDM's failure to intervene in the illegal connections.

Unfortunately, the SDM was yet to respond on these matters, the Sekhukhune Times will run a follow-up when they respond.

Elandskraal Sports Facility in shambles

ELANDSKRAAL

The Elandskraal Sports Facility in Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality (EPMLM), is on the brink of collapse.

Despite millions of rands being spent on the multipurpose sports centre, the facility is plagued by lack of maintenance and repairs, leaving it in a state of despair.

The neglect has sparked fears that the facility will end up being a “White Elephant”, a symbol of poor planning and bad service delivery.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in EPMLM has raised concerns about the state of the sporting facility.

DA Councillor in the municipality, Flip Jacobs, has been vocal about the municipality's failure to maintain the facility, citing poor planning and bad service delivery as the main contributors to its neglect.

"Our residents deserve better services," Jacobs emphasized, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in municipal governance.

Jacobs indicated that it is more concerning that the Elandskraal Sports Facility, which was intended to be a hub for sports and community activities, is now at risk of becoming a rundown and potentially being repurposed as an animal shelter.

A resident, Khutso Malatji, said they are worried that lack of maintenance and repairs has resulted in the facility's deterioration, making it difficult for athletes and community members to use.

“The facility's state is a far cry from its intended purpose, and its neglect has significant implications for the community,” he said.

Malatji indicated that they are concerned that millions of rands spent on the facility have yielded little return, with the facility's condition worsening over time.

“The lack of maintenance and repairs has resulted in a significant waste of public funds, and the community is left to suffer the consequences. The municipality's failure to prioritize maintenance and repairs has led to a situation where the facility's future is uncertain,” he said.

Malatji reiterated that the community is fed up and will embark in a call to action for the municipality to prioritize maintenance and repairs of the facility.

“The community deserves better services, and it is the municipality's responsibility to ensure that public facilities are well-maintained and functional. The fate of the Elandskraal Sports Facility hangs in the balance, and we want the municipality to commit and take the necessary steps to restore the facility to its intended glory,” he said.

At the time of going to press, EPMLM Spokesperson, Life Nape, could not respond to enquiries sent by the paper.

EFF members attacked during Makhuduthamag Municipality Council Sitting

JANE FURSE

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Limpopo say they strongly condemn actions of Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality (MLM), after the party’s councillor suffered a hand fracture, and about ten other EFF councillors pepper-sprayed by the bouncers during a council sitting convened at the municipality offices in Jane Furse on Wednesday 30 July 2025.

According to the party, the tension started when EFF councillors were questioning the municipality's political authorities about pertinent matters that were deferred to the next meeting but never scheduled on the agenda.

The party alleges that during the questioning, the municipality unleashed bouncers on EFF councillors for holding them accountable as part of their constitutional mandate.

The municipality's alleged behaviour was described as "thuggish" and "abuse of power" by the EFF.

EFF Provincial Chairperson in Limpopo, Lawrence Mapoulo, said part of the party’s questioning during the meeting, was the alarming issues of infrastructure projects that would be discussed in committee but committee members are not allowed to conduct oversight.

The EFF also alleged that the municipality is favouring ANC-aligned individuals and relatives in the issuance of permits for taxi operators.

"Only taxis owned by the ANC-aligned persons are allowed to operate within and around Jane Furse," Mapoulo stated.

Recently, a dispute ensued between the Mashadi Local Taxi Association and the MLM over operating permits. The municipality has allegedly denied permits to the Mashadi Local Taxi Association unless they join the Jane Furse 6+1 Mini Taxi Association.

The association's chairman, Christopher Makua, has expressed concerns about the impact on their livelihoods, stating that they will not join the Jane Furse 6+1 Mini Taxi Association due to the expensive joining fee of R15,000.

The EFF has expressed support for the Mashadi Local Taxi Association, citing their constitutional right to choose their own association.

Mapoulo furthered called on the municipality to give the Mashadi Local Taxi Association a permit and not only give permits to their friends in the ANC.

“We condemn the coward municipality for refusing to be held accountable. People of Makhuduthamaga deserve better and they need services as in yesterday,” he said.

Mapoulo said the party also demanded that MLM Mayor, Cllr Merah Mahlase, be held accountable for her actions and that the municipality stops abusing its power.

At the time of going to press, MLM Spokesperson, Thomas Mashabela, could not respond to enquiries sent by the publication.

ANC Sekhukhune hands over new church

MAKHUTJO

The African National Congress (ANC) in Sekhukhune Region, leaded by Regional Secretary Tala Mathope and PEC Convenor of Deployees Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, officially handed over a new church to the congregation of New Jerusalem Church at Makhutjo Village in Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality (MLM) Ward 31.

The new church building initiative is a result of the ANC's intervention in response to the congregation's struggles to build a proper structure.

In 2024, the ANC visited the church and discovered that services were being conducted under a tree.

During that time, the ANC promised to intervene and build a proper structure, and true to their word, they have delivered a beautiful new church building.

The newly handed over church building includes an office and storage space, proper toilets for both males and females, a fence and gate, paved yard, and electricity installation.

During the hand over, the political party also donated 200 chairs to the congregation. Addressing the hand over, Mathope highlighted the importance of making a difference and touching lives.

"We are proud to have been able to make a positive impact on the lives of the congregation and the community. We believe that everyone deserves a safe and comfortable place to worship, and we are happy to have been able to provide that for the New Jerusalem Church congregation," he said.

The congregation and church leadership appreciated the ANC's work and vowed to take care of the infrastructure and continue praying for the people.

"We are grateful for the ANC's intervention and promise to take good care of the new church building," said a member of the congregation.