Magistrate Court Puts Spotlight on PSC and Drs Solomon Phera and Masego Tshabalala

Staff Reporter

Bloemfontein — The conviction of Jeannie Kellerman, a former senior clerk at Government Garage, for fraud and money-related offences may have brought an end to the criminal leg of the matter, but it leaves a huge dent in governance and raises questions about political interference.

According to Warrant Officer Fikiswa Matoti of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, Government Garage held an auction at which about 18 cars, with a total value of R1,163,768, were sold to Mohammed Cajee of MSN Cars. Cajee allegedly paid only R150,000.

The vehicles were subsequently released, but the outstanding balance was allegedly never paid.

Mohammed Ismail, a former Chief Director, opened a case and later became a state witness.

Despite this, Ismail was charged with failing to report the matter to law enforcement. The charge was brought by Dr Masego Tshabalala, while Dr Solomon Phera served as chairperson of the disciplinary proceedings. Phera was eventually appointed Director-General of the Free State Provincial Government.

Joyce “Pretenders” Mathae was the MEC of Community Safety, Roads and Transport at the time.

It took this publication just one phone call to obtain details of who had opened the case and when. However, despite the information being available, it is alleged that a directive had been issued to find Nomaan guilty, and that the relevant officials proceeded regardless.

Ismail was eventually acquitted of the charge but was subsequently demoted and transferred.

Kellerman also testified in proceedings involving Ismail.

The case dragged on for more than 800 days, while Ismail remained at home on full pay. During this period, the Public Service Commission (PSC) came under scrutiny for what critics have described as its failure to intervene effectively.

The 800 days long suspension of Muhammed Ismail must be studied where Dr Tshabalala got her PhD

While the ANC is focusing on candidates without matric, the biggest problem may lie with those who are qualified — and, in some cases, allegedly perform even worse when it comes to governance and accountability.

Kellerman and Cajee will know their fate on 13 October 2026, according to Warrant Officer Matoti.

“Bail has been extended for both accused until their sentencing on 13 October 2026.”

We will be in court on that day.

In other news, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Provincial Chairperson Mxolisi Dukwana will lead a campaign trail this weekend in Free State aimed at luring voters to give ANC another chance.

The last time they did this the shot and fat guy was sulking in the ANC WhatsApp group demanding his pictures be shared online.

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.