Phophi Ramathuba dismisses corruption and nepotism claims in Limpopo

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has strongly rejected allegations linking her to nepotism and multimillion-rand payments at the Mogalakwena Local Municipality.

The claims, which surfaced on social media earlier this month, were posted from an account purporting to be municipal manager Morris Montego Maluleka. In a series of posts, the account alleged that senior politicians had ordered him to sign off on questionable transactions and employ their relatives, claiming more than R1 billion was spent in just one year.

Soon after, the account was deactivated, and another one was created in Maluleka’s name. The timing and sudden disappearance of the posts fuelled speculation, with some residents suggesting political sabotage and others calling for a proper investigation.

Ramathuba calls it a smear campaign

In a statement on 18 August 2025, Ramathuba’s office described the allegations as “entirely false.” She emphasised that municipal councils and managers operate independently and do not report to the premier or to MEC Basikopo Makamu, who was also named in the claims.

Her office noted that some of the financial transactions mentioned predate her election as premier in 2024. “This is a deliberate smear campaign, not a legitimate inquiry,” she said, adding that law enforcement has been asked to trace the source of the allegations.

Municipality pushes back

The Mogalakwena Municipality has defended its leadership, filing a case of cyberbullying with police. Spokesperson Malesela Selokela said the municipal manager and mayor were being harassed despite focusing on service delivery and improving annual audits.

“The smear campaign will no longer be tolerated,” he said, confirming that authorities are now investigating the fake accounts.

Political backdrop

The controversy comes just weeks before Limpopo’s ANC elective conference, where Ramathuba is considered a frontrunner to replace outgoing premier Stan Mathabatha. Another contender, Polokwane mayor John Mpe, is also facing his own corruption claims.

Both leaders have dismissed the allegations against them as factional battles playing out ahead of the conference. For many Limpopo residents, the truth now rests on whether law enforcement agencies such as the Hawks and SIU can bring clarity before the political dust settles.

Also read: Competition Commission Takes Rand Fixing Battle to Constitutional Court

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Source: The Citizen

Featured Image: News24