By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Newly elected Maluti-a-Phofung Executive Mayor Tumelo Thebe has stepped into office under intense political pressure, with parties across the council demanding unity, consultation and urgent service delivery in a fragile coalition government.
Thebe’s election, confirmed during a council sitting at the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Hall on Tuesday, was followed by a rare show of cross-party engagement — but beneath the congratulations lay firm warnings that his leadership will be closely scrutinised.
Taking the podium, Thebe confronted the municipality’s troubled image head-on, admitting its failures and pledging a decisive break from the past.
“We have been the laughing stock of the whole country. “Things cannot go back to normal on our watch. I apologise to the people of Maluti-a-Phofung and thank coalition partners for trusting me. We will work hard to put this municipality back on the map.”
His remarks set the tone for a council session marked by cautious optimism and sharp political messaging, as parties signalled both willingness to cooperate and readiness to act if sidelined.
SARKO councillor Napo Letlala described the leadership change as a turning point, calling for disciplined teamwork and improved communication within council structures.
Dikwankwetla Party of South Africa councillor Bridgette Lebesa backed Thebe’s appointment but stressed ethical leadership, urging him to prioritise community interests and govern with integrity.
The Democratic Alliance raised the stakes further, with councillor Eleanor Quinta warning that the party would hold the new mayor to strict accountability standards — particularly on the municipality’s troubled draft budget.
“The DA will hold you to our standards. We need structured engagement on the budget — there are serious issues that must be resolved,” she said.
The Economic Freedom Fighters delivered one of the strongest cautions. Chief whip Chicco Mkwanazi reminded Thebe that coalition politics leaves little room for unilateral decisions.
“You are my brother today, but if you fail, no more,” Mkwanazi said.
“The community is suffering. This is a coalition — there must be consultation. The ANC does not have a majority.”
MAP16 councillor Shashapa Motaung echoed the warning, making it clear that support for Thebe would depend on inclusive governance.
“We support you as long as you do not undermine us. But if you don’t listen, we will remove you,” he said.
In a notable moment of political transition, former executive mayor Malekula Melato — removed through a motion of no confidence earlier in the day — accepted the outcome, framing it as a demonstration of democratic accountability.
“Today reflects the strength of our democracy,” Melato said.
“I congratulate Councillor Thebe and urge him to unite the people of Maluti-a-Phofung.”
Council leadership also called for stability, urging parties to prioritise governance over political rivalry.
A proposal for a multi-party platform to deliberate on the draft budget gained traction, signalling a possible shift toward more inclusive decision-making.
“When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers,” council leadership warned.
“What we saw today was not conflict, but democracy in action.”
Thebe now assumes office at a critical juncture, with a divided council, mounting service delivery challenges and a budget process under pressure. While parties appear united on the need for reform, deep political fault lines remain.
His ability to manage coalition dynamics, enforce accountability and restore public confidence will determine whether this moment marks a genuine turning point — or another chapter in the municipality’s ongoing instability.
