MAP coalition govt charts way forward

By Masilo Malakwane

QWAQWA – Maluti-a-Phofung local Municipality has become the first of the hung councils in the province where various political parties have entered into a coalition agreement to effectively unseat the ruling ANC. 

Coalition partners comprising of MAP16, DPSA, EFF, ATM, AIC, AULA, FF PLUS and SARKO say discussions between them were concluded successfully and they were ready to lead the municipality come next week Tuesday.

Map16 Civic Movement Convener, Paratlane Motloung announced during a media briefing today that his party was negotiating with 10 political parties over coalitions.

“As far as coalition talks are concerned, finalisation has been reached about a coalition government in the municipality with all the parties that you see here.”

Motloung further indicated that his party and its coalition partners have endorsed him as the Speaker of the Council; Gilbert Tjhopo Mokotso as the Executive Mayor and Moeketsi Lebesa as Chief Whip.

DPSA leader Moeketsi Lebesa had earlier confirmed discussions on coalitions in the municipality had been very robust but successful and made it clear that it would not enter into a coalition government with the ANC.

“The coming weeks will be quite hectic week as the council will have to work, in the face of possible sabotage from the ruling party,” said Lebesa.

AULA leader Lebohang Rapuleng confirmed that his party has met and resolved to form a coalition with MAP16 and close the door on the ANC.

The DA said they won’t be part of a coalition in the MAP, but will vote with them to elect the troika. Party leader, Allison Oates said they will hold the coalition partners accountable should there be any acts of corruption and misuse of public funds in the troubled municipality.

Meanwhile, ACM said the they will also not join the coalition in MAP but will vote with any party that has their best interests at heart. The party outlined their way forward at a press briefing which was held at Unathi Guesthouse in Phuthaditjhaba. The party’s Deputy President, Letsoaka Matauoana said they are not desperate to be in coalition with any political party, but more than happy to sit on the opposition bench.

MAP16 and other opposition parties joined ranks to form the coalition ahead of the first sitting of the council, expected next week.

Meanwhile Cooperative governance and traditional affairs MEC Mxolisi Dukwana has written a letter notifying the Maluti-a-phofung new leadership of his intention to change the type from mayoral executive system  to collective  system.

They are given until December 15 to make submission on the proposed system.