The Sol Plaatje Municipality headquarters became the scene of high drama this week as suspended Municipal Manager Thapelo Matlala returned to his office, flanked by armed guards, demanding to resume his duties. Matlala, who was placed on precautionary suspension in September 2024 over corruption allegations, asserts his suspension has legally expired.
The controversial return unfolded over two days. On Tuesday, Matlala arrived with three armed guards but was unable to access his office as the locks had been changed during his three-month absence. Undeterred, he returned on Wednesday and successfully commenced work.
His reinstatement was met with immediate protest from a group of Kimberley community members. They voiced strong objections, linking Matlala to tender and contract awards they claim have harmed residents. A community spokesperson stated, “We still believe as a community that those allegations carry weight… Our fight right now is with the council,” accusing the municipality of failing to complete a timely investigation.
The municipality confirms that disciplinary charges have now been formally served on Matlala. A municipal spokesperson clarified the timeline, noting the council was given 90 days to investigate and bring charges—a deadline that expired in mid-December. “The process has unfolded. Incidentally, we were informed that the Municipal Manager has been served with his charges and that the hearing is going to be held on the 13th of January,” the spokesperson said.
However, Matlala’s return hinges on a legal technicality. The spokesperson added that officials received notice from Matlala’s legal team stating “that his suspension has elapsed on the 18th [of December],” leading him to assert his right to return.
In response to the crisis, a special council meeting has been scheduled for Thursday to determine a path forward. It is widely anticipated that the council may move to suspend Matlala a second time, though reports suggest some councillors who originally supported the suspension have since changed their stance.
The situation leaves the municipality in a tense and legally complex position as it prepares for a disciplinary hearing scheduled for January 13th, while its suspended manager has forcibly reclaimed his office.