Matatiele Municipal Manager demands apology from ANC Councillors over defamatory allegations
The Municipal Manager of Matatiele Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, Mr. Matiwane, has demanded a public apology from two ANC councillors, Makopano Shale and Vumile Kondile, who called for his suspension. Matiwane, through his legal representatives Makangela Mtungani Inc., based in Mthatha, stated that the councillors must apologize before he pursues legal action against them.
The demand follows an urgent motion raised by Cllr. Kondile during a special council meeting on October 18, 2024, which was seconded by Cllr. Shale, calling for Matiwane’s suspension. Legal documents delivered to the councillors on Monday described the accusations made during the meeting as false and defamatory. The letter from Matiwane’s lawyers claims, “It has been brought to our attention by our client, Mr. Matiwane, that you made libelous and false allegations during the council meeting on October 18, 2024. These baseless and unfounded claims have caused significant damage to our client’s reputation.”
The lawyers further stated, “The allegations made contain serious, untrue, and highly defamatory statements towards our client, including malicious falsehoods. As a result of your actions, our client has suffered substantial harm to his character, reputation, and professional image.”
The legal notice demands that the councillors immediately cease making false allegations and issue a written apology to Matiwane, to be circulated to all council members by the close of business on Friday, October 25, 2024. Should the councillors fail to comply, the matter will be taken to court for alternative relief.
In an interview, Matiwane confirmed that Makangela Mtungani Inc. represents him and that he instructed them to address the matter. He described the accusations raised in the council as defamatory and damaging to his reputation. When questioned about the legal immunity of councillors within the council chambers, Matiwane acknowledged their immunity but argued that it is not absolute, stating, “The democratic processes of the council cannot be used for mudslinging.”
Matiwane dismissed claims that his actions were intended to intimidate councillors from holding him accountable, saying, “I am always willing to account to the council and the public in the right manner and with the right intentions.”
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