As the morning sun rose over Sasolburg, a sense of purpose and expectation filled the Council Chambers at the Civic Centre. On Friday, 30 January 2026, Metsimaholo Local Municipality convened its first Ordinary Council Meeting for the year, marking not just the start of a new municipal calendar, but a renewed commitment to accountability, governance, and service delivery.
The meeting opened on a solemn and reflective note, grounding the day’s deliberations in faith and wisdom. Rev. Thabiso Ntlatseng led the opening prayer and scripture reading, calling for unity, discernment, and ethical leadership as councillors embarked on the important work ahead. It was a powerful reminder that governance is not merely procedural, but deeply moral and people-centred.
Despite the physical distance, leadership presence was strongly felt. The Executive Mayor, Cllr Jack Malindi, joined the sitting via a hybrid platform, actively participating alongside councillors who were present in the chamber. This hybrid engagement reflected the municipality’s adaptability and commitment to ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making.
The meeting was ably chaired by the Acting Speaker, Cllr Lunga Mthetho, who steered proceedings with firmness and clarity, ensuring that discussions remained focused and aligned with the municipality’s legislative responsibilities.A key highlight on the agenda was a presentation by the Office of the Auditor-General, which unpacked the 2024–2025 financial statements and audit outcomes. This presentation was a critical moment of reflection and oversight, offering Council an opportunity to assess financial performance, governance controls, and areas requiring strengthening as part of Metsimaholo’s ongoing journey toward clean administration.
In advancing the municipality’s operational business, all reports from the Finance, Technical, and Local Economic Development (LED) Departments were approved, demonstrating Council’s confidence in the work undertaken by these directorates. However, in the spirit of diligence and thorough scrutiny, Item 29 under the Finance Department was referred back and will be reconsidered at the next Council meeting.Furthermore, Council resolved that all reports from the Directorate for Corporate Services and Organisational Development be referred back for further engagement. These reports will first be discussed in the relevant Portfolio Committee meetings before being brought back to Council for final approval—underscoring Council’s commitment to robust oversight and informed decision-making.
As the meeting drew to a close, one message stood clear: 2026 has begun with intent. Through prayer, accountability, and decisive leadership, Metsimaholo Local Municipality has set a firm foundation for the year ahead—one rooted in transparency, collaboration, and service to its communities.
