In a stunning and deeply personal public declaration, Morris Montengo Maluleka, the Municipal Manager of Mogalakwena Local Municipality, has come forward with allegations that could shake the political foundations of Limpopo and beyond.
In a message addressed to both the public and his family, Maluleka warned that if anything were to happen to him, the blame should fall squarely on Limpopo Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba and former Cooperative Governance MEC Basikopo Makamu.
Maluleka claims he carried out numerous corrupt transactions at Mogalakwena—on behalf of companies linked to Ramathuba and Makamu—and even appointed their family members into the municipality. He alleges that over R1 billion was spent within a single year under pressure from the two politicians, and that he was now being coerced into surrendering to the Hawks, with promises that he wouldn’t spend more than a week behind bars.
He also revealed that his attempt to expose the alleged corruption online was quickly silenced. “Less than 24 hours after opening an account to share the truth, it was taken down,” he said, calling it proof of how far their influence reaches. According to Maluleka, these actions show a concerted effort to cover up the rot and intimidate whistleblowers into silence.
Despite the risks, Maluleka is resolute. He promises to release all relevant invoices and expose the companies involved, even naming a former municipal official, Mr. Ngomana, who resigned on 28 July 2025 under pressure from law enforcement. “I will not be intimidated. I will not back down,” Maluleka said, as he called on the public, media, and law enforcement agencies to hold the powerful accountable.
This chilling statement has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political and civic landscape. The allegations point to high-level corruption, abuse of public funds, and political manipulation within the heart of local government—making it more than just a local scandal. It may well become a national reckoning.
As investigations by the Hawks, the South African Police Service, and the National Prosecuting Authority intensify, the public waits to see whether Maluleka’s revelations will bring justice—or make him yet another casualty in South Africa’s war on corruption.
