THE Free State High Court has granted an interim order reinstating Centlec spokesperson Lele Mamatu, amid a contentious legal battle exposing allegations of forged resignations, abuse of power and internal strife at Mangaung’s electricity utility.
The ruling, delivered on Monday, follows Mamatu’s urgent application to block Centlec from processing what he says is a fraudulent resignation letter orchestrated by chief executive officer Malefane Sekoboto.
The court order allows Mamatu to return to work and access Centlec premises pending a full review, which he must file within 14 days or risk losing the interim relief.
Costs will be decided later.
Reacting to the court decision, Centlec said in a statement: “We take note and welcome the interim court order . . . We are studying the judgment and shall provide further information, if any, soon after we have consulted with our legal team.”
Mamatu called the ruling a “meaningful step forward” but said it did not meet all expectations.
“My focus now is to continue working constructively within the legal framework to pursue justice, fairness and reform,” he said.
Mamatu claims he was ambushed on 6 June 2025 during a meeting with Sekoboto and Centlec’s chief finance officer Zoe Williams where he was presented a resignation letter already bearing his name.
He refused to sign it, calling it fraudulent, and was then forcibly removed.
Mamatu alleges Sekoboto ordered: “Cut everything that has to do with Mamatu.”
Despite denying he had resigned, Mamatu was barred from work the next day, forcing him to open a fraud case against Sekoboto on 8 June.
He argues his removal violated labour laws and procedural fairness, while salary cuts threatened his ability to care for his three sons and continue dialysis treatment.
Sekoboto denies wrongdoing, saying Mamatu resigned voluntarily to avoid disciplinary action over procurement misconduct.
He claims Mamatu submitted an unsigned resignation letter, which he merely wanted formalised.
Sekoboto also accuses Mamatu of leaking confidential information and awarding tenders improperly to fund personal expenses.
He alleges Centlec board chair Casca Mokitlane colluded with Mamatu to discredit him.
“These are not just employment disputes – they go to the heart of integrity and corporate governance at a public utility,” Sekoboto told the court.
Mamatu now has 14 days to file a full review.
The case has highlighted deep political and corporate tensions within the utility, raising concerns about governance, procurement and factional battles at a vital service provider for hundreds of thousands in Mangaung. – Staff Reporter