“Media Feud Unravels: False Claims Against Municipality Exposed”

By Mpho Dube, Editor‑in‑Chief, The Azanian

BURGERSFORT – A fierce battle of words between rival media houses has been laid bare after political parties in the Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality Council publicly debunked a campaign alleging that a “bogus” radio station was siphoning municipal funds.

The accusations, which surfaced on social media and in several news outlets last week, claimed the municipality’s communication unit was weak and had paid millions to an unregistered broadcaster for minimal airtime.

A source within the EFF, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the allegations are entirely false. "We are of a view that this developments are a well calculated agenda weaken the competitors in the media fratenity for selfish interests to certain individuals in various media houses," said the EFF source. “The municipality’s communication department is professional and transparent. We are encouraging those who have evidence to report to the SAPS or any law enforcement agencies.”

Another source, also speaking on condition of anonymity, echoed the sentiment, stating that the allegations appear to be unfounded.

“We have thoroughly investigated these claims and can confirm they are baseless,” said a source.

The municipality refused to comment on the matter. Despite repeated attempts, officials could not be reached for comment at the time of publication.

The controversy has also split the local media landscape. A community publication reported that investigations show the allegations were circulated by a handful of media houses.

“Our investigations show that the allegations were circulated by a handful of media houses,” said the editor of the community publication.

As the story develops, the Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality has pledged to hold a public briefing next week to address the media and the community directly.