By Lebone Rodah Mosima
The Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has seconded former Matatiele municipal manager Lizo Matiwane to Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality following the suspension of municipal manager Lungile Ndabeni.
Municipal spokesperson Mamela Mangcotywa told Inside Metros on Tuesday that Matiwane would serve as acting municipal manager.
His secondment started on 5 October 2026 and will run until 30 September 2027.
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Mangcotywa said Matiwane previously worked as a senior manager responsible for strategic planning at the former Nkonkobe Local Municipality, now part of Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality.
“He has served as Director of Corporate Services at Mhlontlo from 2013 to 2018 and at Alfred Nzo from 2018 to 2020 and went on to serve as the Municipal Manager at Matatiele Local Municipality from 2020 to 2026,” Mangcotywa said.
Mangcotywa said the secondment was intended to help stabilise the municipality and restore stakeholder confidence.
Ndabeni is facing fraud and money-laundering charges linked to an alleged R2.8-million ghost-employee scheme.
He and five co-accused are due back in court on 9 November, when the matter is scheduled for disclosure of the docket at the Mthatha Specialised Commercial Crime Court.
“The secondment forms part of COGTA’s continued support to local government and is aimed at strengthening the institutional and administrative capacity of the Municipality, enhancing organisational effectiveness, and supporting Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality in fulfilling its constitutional mandate,” the municipality said.
It said Matiwane’s appointment was intended to provide additional administrative and institutional support during the period of secondment.
“Mr Matiwane brings extensive experience in local government and public administration, supported by a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree and a professional background.”
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“During his period of secondment, Mr Matiwane will work closely with the municipality’s political leadership, senior management, and relevant stakeholders.”
The municipality reaffirmed its commitment to good governance, transparent administration, organisational performance and sustainable service delivery.
It said it “will continue to provide relevant and verified updates through its official communication platforms as and when necessary”.
