Premier Ramathuba respond to social media allegations
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has responded to allegations that she was involved in the signing of payments exceeding millions of rands at the Mogalakwena Municipality.
A X account made claims that Dr Ramathuba was involved in the signing of payments by the Municipal Manager, Morris Montengo Maluleka, to companies linked to both the Premier and the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Mr Basikopo Makamu.
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The account further alleged that the two politicians directed the Municipal Manager to employ their relatives.
“The Office of the Premier wants to be unequivocally clear: these assertions are entirely false,” said Premier’s Spokesperson Thilivhali Muavha.
“They reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the operational dynamics within government. Municipal Councils and their Municipal Managers operate independently and do not operationally report to the Premier or the MEC.
“The Premier may only intervene in local government matters under specific circumstances after receiving reports from the MEC for COGHSTA. Thus, the allegations are not only unfounded but appear to be part of a deliberate smear campaign rather than a genuine inquiry into the truth.”
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“Worse, some of the transactions that are said to be part of what is reported date back to 2023, long before the current Premier was elected into this position.”
The office of the Premier says they have escalated the matter to law enforcement agencies to investigate the origins of the allegations.
“Additionally, the Premier implores these agencies to ensure the safety and protection of the Municipal Manager of Mogalakwena Municipality amid these troubling circumstances,” read a statement.
The Office urges community members to disregard these unfounded claims and to maintain their faith in the integrity of our public officials, who remain dedicated to serving the people of Limpopo.”
