ACTING PREMIER MBALULA’S FIRM ACTION RESOLVES HENNEMAN SHUTDOWN
- themarathonnews03
- May 21
- 2 min read
By: Staff Reporter
The Free State Provincial Government, led by Acting Premier Jabu Mbalula, has effectively resolved the shutdown in Phomolong, Henneman.
The protest concerning the Middelpunt Solar PV Project has ended, allowing full access to essential services, including education for Grade 12 students.
On Tuesday, 19 May 2026, Acting Premier Mbalula held a stakeholder meeting in Henneman with Middelpunt PV Solar investors, the Matjhabeng Local Municipality, and Phomolong community leaders.
The discussions focused on valid community concerns about worker recruitment and involvement in the project.
Community representatives rejected the proposed 60/40 recruitment division and insisted that Phomolong residents be prioritized for employment opportunities.
They also requested the use of a verified Phomolong community database to ensure transparency and fairness in hiring.
After productive discussions, an agreement was reached.
A memorandum of demands was signed between the provincial government, the Middelpunt investors, and the Phomolong community.
The company agreed to collaborate with the community in a transparent and inclusive manner.
Acting Premier Jabu Mbalula welcomed the resolution and praised the Phomolong community for their responsible behaviour during the protest.
“I commend the community for maintaining peace and not damaging state property. Their demands are reasonable, and residents should be prioritized in local projects,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to work closely with both the community and the company to ensure all demands are fully addressed.
The resolution followed a series of proactive engagements by the provincial government.
On Friday, 15 May 2026, Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae met with the community and promised to return after consulting all affected parties.
On Tuesday, 19 May, Acting Premier Mbalula held an initial meeting with the Middelpunt investors and the municipality, followed by another session to finalize details before engaging with the community.
The Phomolong community has expressed gratitude for the provincial government’s prompt intervention and its steadfast commitment to resolving the impasse.
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