Zeerust, North West – Tensions remain high at the Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality following the council’s decision to remove Dinah Pitso as mayor, sparking a leadership crisis that has left the municipality in disarray.
The council passed a resolution on July 9 to oust Pitso and elected Itumeleng Moarabi as the new mayor. However, Pitso has refused to vacate her office, despite the council’s decision and two failed court bids to challenge her removal.
Court Dismisses Urgent Applications
Pitso, an ANC councillor, approached the North West High Court seeking an interdict to halt the implementation of the council’s resolution, arguing that her removal was unlawful. However, the court dismissed her urgent application on July 25, dealing a blow to her efforts to retain power.
Despite the legal setbacks, Pitso continues to occupy the mayoral office, creating confusion over who holds legitimate authority in the municipality.
New Mayor Claims Legitimacy, ANC Stands Firm
In an interview, newly elected Mayor Itumeleng Moarabi insisted that the council’s decision was binding and that Pitso’s refusal to leave was causing instability.
“Council has expressed itself in terms of the mayorship of the institution,” Moarabi stated. “There is no such thing as two mayors. The law must take its course.”
However, the ANC provincial leadership has publicly backed Pitso, declaring her the party’s recognized mayor and threatening disciplinary action against councillors who voted for her removal. This has further deepened divisions within the municipality, pitting the council against the ruling party.
Leadership Vacuum Threatens Service Delivery
The standoff has raised concerns over governance and service delivery in the municipality. Moarabi warned that the prolonged leadership vacuum could paralyze administrative functions, leaving residents in limbo.
“We cannot let this continue,” he said. “We need to move forward for the sake of the municipality.”
Meanwhile, Pitso’s supporters argue that her removal was politically motivated, while her opponents insist the council acted within its rights.
What Happens Next?
With the ANC vowing to discipline dissenting councillors and Pitso clinging to her position, the crisis shows no signs of immediate resolution. Legal experts suggest that further court action or intervention from provincial authorities may be necessary to break the deadlock.
As the power struggle plays out, residents of Ramotshere Moiloa are left wondering who truly leads their municipality—and when stability will finally return.
