The Fight Over MAP16: Who Controls the Free State Citizens’ Movement?
What Is MAP16?
MAP16 (the MAP16 Citizens’ Movement) started in 2018 when 16 ANC councilors were kicked out of the party for voting with opposition parties to remove the then‑mayor of Maluti‑a‑Phofung.
After their expulsion, these former councilors formed their own group, won ten seats in a by‑election, and later secured 20 seats in the 2021 local elections. The movement quickly became a notable force in the Free State municipality.
Why the Power Struggle Began
Success brought internal tension. Different factions started arguing over who should lead the movement and how its money should be handled. The disagreement turned into a legal battle that is still unfolding ahead of the November local elections.
The May 2025 Meeting That Was Declared Illegal
- When: May 30, 2025 at Robala Lodge in QwaQwa
- Who: Seven leaders – Sello Motholo, Mutlanyane Sekete, Larrigan Mofokeng, Tshohise Moloi, Moroesi Ntsala, Thabo Khabotle, and Matshepo Mokubung – called a cadre meeting.
- What happened: The Free State High Court ruled that the meeting violated MAP16’s constitution. All decisions made there—including the election of a new Central Executive Committee (CEC)—were declared null and void.
- Result: The seven leaders were barred from serving as official CEC members.
The Bank Account Dispute
Money is always a flashpoint, and MAP16’s Absa bank account became the next battleground.
- June 2025 Court Order: Judges instructed that Motloung (coordinator) and Nhlapo (finance committee member) must be reinstated as signatories on the account. The seven leaders were told they could not remove them or install anyone else without permission.
- Absa’s Role: The bank was ordered to take reasonable steps to put Motloung and Nhlapo back on the account and to remove any unauthorized signatories.
The Recent Ruling by Judge Celeste Reinders
Last month, Acting Deputy Judge Celeste Reinders partly overturned the June 2025 order. She concluded that there were good reasons to believe Motloung and Nhlapo had missed board meetings and had not apologized for their absences. Because of this, the judge allowed some of the previous restrictions to be lifted, though the case is still open.
What the Leaders Are Saying Now
Paratlane Motloung, speaking on behalf of the interim CEC, said:
- The interim CEC has already filed a request to appeal Judge Reinders’ decision.
- They are waiting for the outcome of that appeal.
- Despite the legal wrangling, the group is still preparing for the upcoming local elections.
- A meeting was held just yesterday (Tuesday) with local structures to plan for the open registration weekend on June 20‑21, 2026.
- Motloung added that they do not expect the court case to seriously derail their election campaign.
Looking Ahead to the November Elections
- MAP16 remains active on the ground, holding meetings and mobilizing supporters.
- The legal fight over leadership and finances could influence public perception, but the movement insists it will stay focused on campaigning.
- Voters in Maluti‑a‑Phofung will watch closely to see which faction ends up in control—and whether the internal dispute will affect the party’s performance at the polls.
Bottom Line
The battle for MAP16 is about more than just a bank account or a title; it’s a struggle over the direction and credibility of a citizens’ movement that rose from ANC dissent. As the court decisions continue to roll out, both sides are gearing up for the November local elections, hoping to prove that they—and not their rivals—truly represent the people of the Free State.
