The African National Congress (ANC) in the Free State has welcomed the smooth reconfiguration of seven struggling municipal troikas, describing the process as a critical intervention to strengthen governance, improve service delivery, and restore stability in municipalities across the province.

The party said the leadership changes were carried out in a disciplined and united manner to ensure municipalities remain responsive to the needs of communities ahead of the upcoming elections.

The reshuffle, announced in August last year by ANC Free State provincial secretary Polediso Motsoeneng, was aimed at realigning political priorities, stabilising municipalities, and accelerating service delivery.

According to ANC provincial spokesperson Thabo Meeko, the process has progressed smoothly, with only two of the seven municipalities still expected to elect new mayors.

“The process is going smoothly and should be completed within a week or two. The organisation is currently finalising a few internal issues within Nala and Masilonyana local municipalities,” said Meeko.

He welcomed the election of new mayors in Mafube, Moqhaka, Letsemeng, Nketoana, and the Lejweleputswa District Municipality.

“We are happy as the ANC that capable leaders are being put in place to fast-track issues confronting the municipalities, including service delivery to the people,” he said.

Phaladi Matsole was recently elected as the new mayor of Mafube Local Municipality, while Ramasimong Daniel Tau was appointed mayor of Moqhaka Local Municipality.

Meanwhile, Andrew Visagie, Godfrey, and Phindiwe Maseko were elected mayors of Letsemeng, Nketoana, and Lejweleputswa District Municipality, respectively.