By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – The Maluti-a-Phofung Local Council has appointed a five-member committee to investigate the status, resignation and continued remuneration of Pastor Mary Crokette amid allegations that she is still being paid an MMC salary despite no longer serving in that role.
The matter erupted during an ordinary council sitting at the Phuthaditjhaba Multipurpose Hall on Thursday, 29 January 2026, after councillor Shashapa Motaung questioned whether Crokette remains an active councillor and why she allegedly continues to receive MMC benefits.
Motaung told council that Pastor Crokette no longer attends sittings and asked whether she is still being paid as a Member of the Mayoral Committee.
Executive Mayor Malekula Melato said she was unaware of the status of the matter, stating that she does not deal directly with administrative or financial issues.
Council Speaker Mandlenkosi Dlamini, however, revealed that he had written to both the Mayor and Municipal Manager Mzwakhe Mofokeng seeking clarity, noting that council had resolved last year that the issue be finalised by 18 December — a deadline that passed without action.
“This matter was supposed to be resolved, but nothing has happened,” Dlamini said.
Councillor Chicco Mkwanazi criticised the mayor’s response, accusing the leadership of misleading council and ignoring its own resolutions. He called for consequences, warning that council decisions were being repeatedly undermined.
Councillor Paratlane Motloung described the situation as “very serious” and demanded a full investigation. Proposals were also made that Pastor Crokette should immediately stop receiving any MMC salary and repay funds allegedly received after vacating the position.
Chief Whip Moeketsi Lebesa emphasised the urgency of the matter, calling for decisive intervention.
Following heated debate, council voted to establish a five-member committee to investigate the resignation process and salary payments linked to Pastor Crokette. The committee comprises Napo Letlaka, Johannes Moepeloa, Alison Oates, Pitso Mokoenihi and Thabo Moloi, with Alison Oates elected as chairperson.
The committee is expected to present its findings and recommendations at the next council sitting.
