Sol Plaatje probes claims of AWOL official

Update (September 15, 2025): Editor’s note added; MEC’s categorical denial and municipal probe details are reflected below.

SOL PLAATJE Municipality has committed to investigating why the youth desk co-ordinator in the Office of the Executive Mayor has been receiving a full salary despite reportedly being absent from her desk for the past two years.

The official is believed to be a close family member of the MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism and ANC Youth League provincial chairperson Venus Blennies-Magage.

A spokesperson for the Office of the Mayor, Keobakile Musunse, confirmed that Beauty Blennies started employment at the municipality on May 3, 2022.

She stated that apart from being granted maternity leave, there appeared to be no approval for her extended absence.

“The municipality is currently investigating whether Blennies was granted any formal approval to work remotely or under any flexible work arrangement,” said Musunse.

“At this stage, there is no evidence on record authorising a two-year absence from either physical or remote duties. However, the Office of the Executive Mayor can confirm that Blennies was granted maternity leave in 2025.”

Musunse added that staff were expected to work according to the hours stipulated in their contracts.

“The municipality maintains a performance management and timekeeping system for all staff. We remain committed to upholding the values of ethical leadership and good governance. Any confirmed violation of these principles will be dealt with decisively and transparently.”

She further stated that corrective action would be applied in line with municipal disciplinary procedures and legal frameworks in the event of any breach of municipal policies.

“We acknowledge the seriousness of allegations that Blennies may have received full remuneration and benefits during an extended period of alleged non-attendance. These claims are being investigated by the relevant administrative units.”

Musunse confirmed that Blennies had been appointed in accordance with the municipality’s recruitment policies.

“Her scope of duties as youth desk co-ordinator includes youth development, monitoring and implementing youth development programmes aligned with the municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP). This includes co-ordinating youth stakeholder engagement, facilitating access to economic opportunities for young people, and acting as a liaison between youth structures and the Office of the Executive Mayor,” she said.

Editor’s note (September 15, 2025): After publication, Beauty Blennies publicly confirmed she is the sister of Venus Blennies-Magage, the Northern Cape MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism. Our original report did not allege MEC involvement in municipal staffing or remuneration and focused on Sol Plaatje Municipality’s response and its ongoing probe. The family relationship was referenced as context in the public interest. A detailed follow-up, which includes the MEC’s categorical denial, can be read here.