Masilonyana Municipal Manager Denies Allegations of Demolishing Heritage Site Without Approval

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21-01-2025
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Central News
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The Municipal Manager of Masilonyana Local Municipality, Mojalefa Matlole, has denied allegations of demolishing parts of a heritage building in Theunissen without proper approval. The accusations have sparked a heated debate within the municipality, with Mayor Dimakatso Modise raising concerns over the manager’s actions and their compliance with the National Heritage Resources Act.

Heritage Site Controversy

The building in question, constructed in 1936, has been at the centre of the controversy. Mayor Modise claims the structure is classified as a heritage site, making it subject to the protections outlined in the National Heritage Resources Act. According to the Act, no person may alter or demolish any structure older than 60 years without obtaining a permit from the provincial heritage authority.

“What angered me is that this building is a heritage site. It has been proclaimed and gazetted as such. To my surprise, all these renovations happened without my knowledge or approval, nor was the council consulted,” stated Modise.

The mayor further accused Matlole of undermining the council and misusing municipal funds. “I felt undermined as the mayor of this institution. These grants are meant for service delivery, and this expenditure was not approved as a priority.”

Acting Municipal Manager’s Defence

In Matlole’s absence, Acting Municipal Manager Tsepiso Tsotetsi has refuted the allegations, claiming that the building is not officially recognised as a heritage site. He stated that the current renovations were minor and aimed at improving the functionality of the municipal offices, specifically the creation of a formal reception area.

“We are addressing damaged ceilings and floors caused by roof leaks. This is being carried out using the maintenance budget of R17 million, which was adopted by the council on 31 May 2024. The expectation that this be included in the IDP projects is incorrect as it is already reflected in both the institutional budget and the SDBIP,” Tsotetsi clarified.

Tsotetsi also highlighted that internal maintenance teams were being used to minimise costs and ensure efficiency. He denied that any major alterations were taking place, describing the work as standard maintenance.

Legal Framework and Implications

The National Heritage Resources Act provides strict guidelines for the alteration or demolition of buildings older than 60 years. Violations of this Act can lead to legal consequences, including the issuance of a cease-work order by the provincial heritage authority. The Free State Provincial Heritage Resources Authority, through spokesperson Leang Leu, confirmed that any work on heritage sites must be authorised.

“Once we receive a formal complaint about the violation, we will issue a cease order to halt operations until a permit application for alterations is submitted and approved,” said Leu.

Community Reaction

The allegations have drawn mixed reactions from Theunissen residents and other stakeholders. Some community members have expressed outrage, accusing the municipality of neglecting its responsibility to protect cultural heritage.

A local resident, Thandiwe Moloi, commented, “This building is part of our history. If it is destroyed without proper oversight, we lose a piece of our identity.”

Others, however, have defended the municipal leadership, arguing that the renovations are necessary to improve service delivery.

“These offices are used daily to serve the public. If repairs are needed, they should be done to ensure efficiency and safety,” said another resident, Mpho Phiri.

Next Steps and Investigation

The Free State Provincial Heritage Resources Authority has indicated that it is monitoring the situation and awaiting a formal complaint. If evidence of unauthorised alterations is found, a cease-work order could be issued, and further legal action may follow.

The mayor has vowed to push for a thorough investigation into the matter. “We will not allow the municipality to flout regulations or misuse public funds. This issue must be resolved transparently and in accordance with the law,” Modise asserted.

Municipal Financial Challenges

This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of broader financial challenges facing the Masilonyana Local Municipality. With limited resources, the municipality is under pressure to prioritise service delivery over administrative upgrades. Critics argue that the funds allocated for the renovations could have been better spent addressing pressing community needs such as water supply and road maintenance.

Mayor Modise echoed these sentiments, stating, “Service delivery should always be our top priority. We cannot justify spending on internal office renovations while our residents face basic service delivery challenges.”

Broader Implications for Governance

The incident has raised questions about governance and accountability within local municipalities. Experts have emphasised the need for adherence to legal frameworks, especially in matters involving public resources and cultural heritage.

Dr. Sipho Khumalo, a governance analyst, remarked, “This situation highlights the importance of transparency and stakeholder consultation in municipal decision-making. Without these, trust between municipal leaders and the public erodes, further complicating service delivery efforts.”

Public Demands for Transparency

The controversy has amplified calls for greater transparency in municipal operations. Residents have urged the council to make all budgetary allocations and decisions publicly available to prevent similar disputes in the future.

“The council must ensure that decisions, especially those involving significant expenditures, are made openly and with community input,” said a local activist group in a statement.