Magalakwena R1-Billion corruption involves Phophi Ramathuba and Basikop Makamu

by Mathipa Phishego

A shocking wave of corruption allegations has erupted from within the Mogalakwena Local Municipality in Mokopane, Limpopo. Pointing to a possible looting spree amounting to over R1 billion in just one year.

The revelations come from the Municipal Manager Morris Montengo Maluleka, who has now turned a whistleblower fearing for his life. Naming two powerful Limpopo politicians Dr. Phophi Ramathuba and Basikop Makamu, as the alleged masterminds behind the scandal.

In a public confession statement, Maluleka wrote, “if anything happens to me, the following people Phophi Ramathuba and Basikop Makamu are responsible. I have carried out numerous corrupt transactions at Mogalakwena on behalf of their companies and hired their family members. Now they want me to surrender to the Hawks, assuring me I won’t spend more than a week in jail.”

Maluleka claims he was coerced into facilitating fraudulent payments. With unlawful appointments at the instruction of these senior provincial officials.

He asserts that once he attempted to expose the truth. His social media accounts were taken down within 24 hours, suggesting high-level interference and a concerted effort to suppress the truth.

The documents leaked by Maluleka paint a horrifying picture of financial abuse and poor governance. Among the most staggering revelations.

A R78 Million for painting of dams. An internal transaction sheet lists MM Star (Pty) Ltd as having received R78.5 million for the alleged maintenance and “painting of dams.”

The Payment entries appear suspiciously structured. With multiple payments of R5 million and R15 million, spread over several dates a possible attempt to evade detection.

Another document reveals that Popela Maake Attorneys received a jaw-dropping R66,726,149.13 in legal fees from Mogalakwena Municipality. This level of spending on legal services is grossly disproportionate for a municipality battling service delivery issues.

One specific invoice, dated 1 April 2025. Shows a R1,751,940 charge for legal representation in an internal disciplinary matter. A case involving Hendrick Steven Malrose Ngoepe.

The payment was formally authorized by Municipal Manager Maluleka himself and Chief Financial Officer K.A. Ngomana.There is also a letter dated 28 July 2025.

Where CFO K.A. Ngomana tendered a resignation letter citing appreciation for the opportunity.But offering no explanation for the sudden departure, conveniently aligned with growing pressure from law enforcement agencies like the Hawks.

The timing strongly supports Maluleka’s claims. That both he and Ngomana, were under duress to process suspect transactions.

The whistleblower names Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, a prominent figure in Limpopo politics, and Basikop Makamu, another senior political leader. As the forces behind the illegal activities.

Though the documents do not directly show payments to either individual. Maluleka’s confession and the high-level nature of the transactions. Suggest that the municipality was used as a conduit for enrichment and nepotism.

What makes this case more alarming is the repeated claim that Maluleka’s life is in danger. His statement is a direct plea to the public and his family to hold those in power accountable should anything happen to him.

“Less than 24 hours after opening an account to share the truth, it was taken down. That alone shows the kind of power these two individuals hold,” read the statement.

The claim raises serious concerns about freedom of expression, witness protection, and the safety of whistleblowers in South Africa.

This expose should trigger an immediate action from the The Hawks (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Public Protector South Africa, Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA).

Transparency and accountability demand that, all contracts involving MM Star (Pty) Ltd and Popela Maake Attorneys be audited. A forensic investigation is launched into CFO Ngomana’s financial authorizations.

The political influence allegedly exerted by Dr. Ramathuba and Makamu be probed without fear or favor. This is more than a story of corruption it is a story of betrayal, fear, and systemic rot.

A municipal official has risked everything to lift. The veil on what could be one of Limpopo’s most damaging scandals in recent memory.

The silence of the implicated figures speaks volumes. Citizens are owed transparency, accountability, and justice.