VEREENIGING – The Sedibeng District Municipality is embroiled in a complex governance controversy following the reinstatement of suspended Chief Financial Officer Mathapelo Masisi.

The finance chief, who authorised a R480,000 salary adjustment for herself without proper approval, was suspended by council on 20 November 2025 after a junior employee questioned the payment.

Masisi challenged her suspension in the Johannesburg High Court, arguing it was unlawful.

Despite the unresolved legal proceedings, the council moved to rescind her suspension during a special in-committee meeting on 12 December 2025.

However, the meeting lacked a quorum after Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) councillors walked out in protest, citing conflicts of interest.

Legal advice later confirmed that decisions taken in that session, including Masisi’s reinstatement, were invalid under constitutional and municipal regulations.

The controversy deepened as Mayor Lerato Maloka criticised the speaker for allegedly altering minutes and manipulating council processes, while the speaker, Moipone Modikeng, insisted the resolutions were procedurally flawed and pledged to seek further legal guidance.

MEC for Cooperative Governance Jacob Mamabolo intervened, directing the municipality to comply with procedural requirements and ultimately ordering Masisi’s reinstatement on 5 January 2026, declaring the matter “closed.”

The situation highlights ongoing tensions within Sedibeng’s political leadership, with divisions between the ANC, coalition partners, and opposition parties.

It also raises broader questions about accountability, adherence to governance procedures, and political influence in administrative decisions, particularly in a municipality already facing financial and operational challenges.

Masisi has returned to her substantive position, while the investigation into the alleged unauthorised salary increase remains pending.

Legal experts note that the case underscores the importance of quorum, transparency, and compliance with municipal and constitutional rules when making binding council decisions.