Mathae bends for Sulky again, for the forth time

Staff Reporter

Bloemfontein — The secondment of John Matlakala, Supply Chain Management Director at the Department of Human Settlements, and COGTA appears to further demonstrate the influence wielded by Teboho “Sulky” Mokoena within the Free State government.

“She acquired her ID before her mother who is now late” – Home Affairs on Maoke’s ID drama

STEPUPSANEWS can confirm that Matlakala is expected to begin work at the Office of the Premier on 1 June 2026, occupying a position left vacant by Stephen Tsunke, who is understood to have stepped aside due to health reasons known to this publication.

Mokoena, de facto Premier initially attempted to move Matlakala to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. However, that move was rejected by MEC Dibolelo Mance.

Successful purges
Previous transfers involving Nozipho Molikoe and Thabiso Makepe to the Departments of Social Development and Health respectively were approved under similar circumstances during the tenures of MECs Mathabo Leeto and Viceroy Mahlatsi but Mance said “hold my beer”.

MEC Mokoena Appoints Director Barely 30 Days in Office as Acting CFO

Critics within government circles argue that provincial departments are increasingly being treated as personal territories where preferred officials are strategically positioned, a link to WhatsApp text just after the chaotic Imvelo Conference.

Mathae has also previously been accused of yielding to pressure from Mokoena when Khopotso Moahlodi was moved to the Office of the Premier.

With Matlakala’s latest secondment, insiders believe this may be happening once again.

The first casualty of Mokoena is Dr Takisi Masiteng because he resisted Mokoena’s interference. Then Mosa Masemene.because she refused to terminate a specific contractor Mokoena allegedly said she should and was instructed my Mathae.

Mokoena puts everything on paper. Brave man!

As previously promised, this publication will continue following developments linked to Mokoena everyday without fail as the countdown continues toward the anticipated National Prosecuting Authority decision, now 20 days away.

Tomorrow: How Mokoena got his hands in Finance and SCM affairs leaving fingerprints.

We are in KuGompo for Julius Malema v Oscar Mabuyane case.

Support Independent Journalism

Stories like this matter. Accountability matters. Truth matters.

If you believe in fearless, independent reporting that holds power to account, help us keep going.

Your contribution, even as little as R10 makes a difference.
Choane Group (Pty) Ltd
FNB: 63110371703

If you have news or tips please email news@stepupsanews.co.za or WhatsApp: 068 507 6731

Independent. Unbought. Unfiltered.