Knives Out: Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba Faces Baseless Allegations

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba

By Mpho Dube-Editor in Chief

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba is facing a barrage of baseless allegations, but she has dismissed them with contempt.

The allegations, which claim she was involved in corrupt transactions and nepotism at the Mogalakwena Municipality, have been thoroughly debunked by her office and the municipality itself.

According to the municipality, the claims are "entirely false" and reflect a "fundamental misunderstanding of the operational dynamics within government." The municipality's statement continued, "Municipal Councils and their Municipal Managers operate independently and do not operationally report to the Premier or the MEC."

Despite the lack of evidence, the allegations have been spread by Ramathuba's nemeses, who are determined to see her removed from power. This internal conflict within the ANC has become a serious problem, with party members fighting amongst themselves and undermining the party's effectiveness.

The root of the problem lies in the two centers of power within the ANC in Limpopo. Ramathuba is not the provincial chairperson, and this has created a power struggle that is playing out in the public arena. The ANC's Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) has suggested calling for an early conference to address the issue and provide clarity on the direction of the party.

As Ramathuba navigates this treacherous landscape, she remains committed to her work and her vision for Limpopo. Her office has escalated the matter to law enforcement agencies to investigate the origins of the baseless allegations and ensure the safety and protection of the Municipal Manager of Mogalakwena Municipality.

The municipality has also released a statement distancing itself from the allegations, saying, "The Office of the Premier wants to be unequivocally clear: these assertions are entirely false. They reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the operational dynamics within government."

The early conference suggested by the PEC may provide a way forward for the ANC in Limpopo, but for now, Ramathuba remains focused on her work and determined to push back against the baseless allegations.