ANC Free State Provincial secretary Polediso Motsoeneng briefed the media on Thursday on the outcome of the provincial executive committee meeting. Image: SABC News.
(The Post News)– The African National Congress (ANC) in Free State has decided to remove seven municipal mayors, speakers, and chief whips. The municipalities affected are Mafube, Moqhaka, Letsemeng, Nketoana, Nala, Masilonyana, and Lejweleputswa.
The ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) has voiced confidence ahead of the upcoming Nala by-elections. He cited solid preparations and favorable prospects for success in Ward 07 on 10 September 2025. The PEC emphasized that its optimism is based on a comprehensive report from the Lejweleputswa Regional Executive Committee and the provincial elections team. Which reflected encouraging progress on the ground.
In a statement, the PEC highlighted “positive feedback in terms of prospects of victory,” referring to the ongoing voter mobilization efforts and responses to community needs. The by-election campaign is also part of the ANC’s broader strategy to rebuild its image following recent electoral challenges. With a renewed focus on clean governance, accountability, and improved service delivery are key as the party gears up for the 2026 local government elections.
The statement added that in Mafube Municipality, residents continue to complain about unreliable water supply, pothole-ridden roads, and erratic electricity. According to the statement, in Moqhaka, also in the Fezile Dabi District, infrastructure underinvestment has cut crucial services. While in the Xhariep District, Letsemeng faces financial mismanagement claims; audit results show inappropriate spending draining development funds. Moreover, in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District, Nketoana criticizes poor waste management and malfunctioning sewer infrastructure.
“In the Lejweleputswa District, Nala Local Municipality is hindered by corruption probes that have stalled service delivery. While the district municipality itself faces criticism for weak oversight, disclaimers in audit reports, and the collapse of coordinated service delivery across its locals,” reads the statement.
Provincial secretary Polediso Motsoeneng said reshuffling mayors is part of a wider intervention to stabilize municipalities plagued by persistent audit disclaimers, weak leadership, and poor service delivery. “Communities have endured years of poor governance and allegations of corruption. The ANC has a responsibility to act decisively to restore credibility and ensure basic services reach our people,” he said.
Moreover, according to reports, the Ward 07 by-elections were prompted by a vacancy following the removal of the previous councillor. Nala Local Municipality, situated in the Lejweleputswa District, includes towns such as Wesselsbron and Bothaville. Where residents continue to grapple with challenges like unreliable water supply, poor road conditions, and limited job opportunities.
The ANC has put forward Cde Manana Mohapi as its candidate. Introducing her to the community during a recent gathering to demonstrate the party’s commitment to responsive local leadership. The campaign has drawn high-level backing; ANC National Executive Committee Cde Cassel Mathale joined the trail on 16–17 August. His participation aims to energize the electorate. Urging people to “come out in numbers to vote ANC” while highlighting the party’s efforts and achievements in driving change.
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