DA Condemns ANC's Takeover Attempt in Turmoil-Ridden Thabazimbi Municipality

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Limpopo has publicly denounced actions taken by the African National Congress (ANC) regarding administrative control of Thabazimbi Local Municipality, a territory plagued by significant challenges in governance and service provision. The statement calling out the ANC follows the announcement from Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba concerning the decision to place the municipality under administration.

The Thabazimbi Municipality, an administration shared by the ANC and the DA, has faced persistent issues affecting the quality and efficiency of public services extended to its residents. Premier Ramathuba addressed the media in Polokwane, revealing the Provincial Executive Council's (PEC) resort to invoke Section 139(1)(c) of the constitution, aiming to address the municipality’s persistent issues, based on extensive reports detailing the dysfunction experienced since 2022.

Dr. Ramathuba highlighted the presence of high vacancies in key management positions as one factor in the administration's failure, which was exacerbated by the council operating as two separate entities, both claiming legitimacy. Moreover, significant financial liabilities plague the municipality, with debts accumulating over R270 million owed to Eskom and additional legal proceedings for payment recovery instituted by the Magalies Water Board.

Despite prior interventions and the urgent need to align with the legislative mandates under the Municipal Systems Act and the Municipal Finance Management Act, the municipality’s conditions have deteriorated, further justifying this drastic intervention.

The DA, represented by Thabazimbi Mayor Tokkie Swanepoel, reacted strongly to this development, accusing the ANC of a power grab and criticizing the lack of formal communication from the provincial government regarding the imposition of administration. Swanepoel described the move as procedurally flawed, with political motives superseding legal mandates.

Mayor Swanepoel referenced a previous Supreme Court of Appeal verdict from 2020 that rescinded the Gauteng Provincial Government's decision to place the City of Tshwane under administration due to similarly disruptive behavior from ANC councillors. He drew parallels to the present situation in Thabazimbi, declaring readiness to take legal action to counteract the imposition.

The mounting tension reflects deep-rooted political struggles impacting local governance in South Africa. With both parties standing firm, the situation in Thabazimbi beckons for a resolution founded not on political rivalry but on genuine service to the community. The DA, through Mayor Swanepoel, reaffirms its commitment to establishing a transparent and service-oriented council amidst these adversities.