The first City Manager appointed by City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) back in 2001, Paul Maseko, attending the monthly Council meeting.
“Cause finally the tables are starting to turn, talking about a revolution,” from Tracy Chapman’s song Talkin About a Revolution rings true in Thabazimbi as the Limpopo Premier, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, spearheads efforts to restore effective governance in the region.
Following the dissolution of the previous council under Section 139 (1) (c) of the South African Constitution, a new chapter begins with the introduction of Mavi Paul Maseko as the Administrator of Thabazimbi Municipality.
Dr. Ramathuba spent Friday engaging with stakeholders and visiting various service delivery points in Thabazimbi. Her mission was clear: to ensure the revitalisation of governance and service delivery in a region that has experienced turmoil and unmet community needs. With a focus on transparency and community involvement, the Premier has expressed confidence in Maseko’s leadership and expertise.
Maseko, a seasoned figure in local government, was introduced to the Premier by MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Basikopo Makamu, along with MEC for Provincial Treasury, Kgabo Mahoai. Known for his extensive experience in municipal administration across the North-West, Free State, Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and KZN, Maseko brings a depth of knowledge and a track record of fostering effective relationships between labour and administration.
Holding an Executive Master’s in Business Administration from De Montfort University in the UK, Maseko is not only academically qualified but practically adept at establishing robust operational systems within municipalities. His appointment is seen as a crucial step toward restoring stability and functionality to Thabazimbi Municipality.
Premier Ramathuba stated, “We needed someone who is balanced, experienced, and focused to deal with the turmoil that has engulfed Thabazimbi. Our instructions to Mr. Maseko are clear: he must get that place right, remain uncompromised, and lead this team with firmness. The people of Thabazimbi need the services they have been denied for a long time.”
On Tuesday, MEC Basikopo Makamu presented Maseko to the wider stakeholder community in Thabazimbi, marking the official commencement of the Administrator’s duties. The 12-member team led by Maseko includes experts in engineering, technical services, legal matters, governance, and finance. They are supported by internal staff from the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA), Provincial Treasury, and COGHSTA.
The revitalisation plan aims not only to restore basic services but also to build a lasting framework for effective governance and community engagement. The community is encouraged to actively participate in this transformative process, ensuring that any deviation from the set path is promptly addressed.
As this new phase unfolds, Thabazimbi residents and stakeholders are hopeful that Maseko’s leadership will indeed turn the tables, bringing peace and development to a region in need. The move signifies a collective effort to uphold governmental transparency and accountability, promising a tangible revolution in the administrative and operational landscape of Thabazimbi.
As the administration takes root, all parties are committed to growing Limpopo together and paving the way for sustainable development.