As the 2026 Local Government Elections approach, Ward 8 in Matome and Mathibela is witnessing the emergence of a leadership voice rooted in community activism, entrepreneurship, and independent thinking.
Lekgati Johannes Kekana, a community development leader and entrepreneur, has stepped forward as an independent candidate with a promise of ethical, accountable, and development-focused leadership.
“Leadership is not about positions,” Kekana said in an interview. “It is about responsibility. Our communities deserve leaders who are present, transparent, and willing to be held accountable.”
Since 2020, Kekana has been actively involved in community upliftment initiatives through his roles as Founder and Executive Director of Free Us Community Organization and Lekgati Foundation. Through these platforms, he has championed youth empowerment programmes, social development projects, and local initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods.
“Our young people do not lack talent,” he said. “What they lack are opportunities. If we align skills training with real economic opportunities, we can change the trajectory of many families in Ward 8.”
His experience also extends into provincial civil society structures, where he contributed to coordination efforts linked to the Office of the Premier under SANAC formations. According to Kekana, this exposure deepened his understanding of governance systems and policy implementation.
“I have seen how decisions are made at higher levels,” he explained. “Now it is time to make sure those processes truly benefit ordinary residents at ward level.”
As an entrepreneur, Kekana says he understands the daily struggles facing small business owners and unemployed youth.
“Small businesses are suffocating under economic pressure,” he said. “If we support cooperatives, promote local procurement, and reduce red tape, we can stimulate real local economic growth.”
Vision for Ward 8
Kekana’s campaign is built on five key priorities: economic development and job creation, skills and vocational training for youth, support for small businesses and cooperatives, infrastructure improvement, and transparent community representation.
On infrastructure, he stressed urgency. “Roads, water, and high mast lighting are not luxuries — they are basic services. Dignity begins with reliable infrastructure.”
He also emphasized accountability. “Residents must never wonder what their ward councillor is doing. I commit to regular feedback meetings and open communication. Transparency builds trust.”
Running as an independent candidate, Kekana says his decision was intentional.
“I want to represent the people of Matome and Mathibela without party-political pressure,” he said. “My loyalty is to the community first. Always.”
As Ward 8 prepares to head to the polls, Kekana’s message remains consistent — leadership grounded in service, integrity, and measurable impact.
“Our ward has potential,” he concluded. “Together, we can build an economy that works for our people and a community that we are proud to call home.”
