Polokwane – The Board of Directors of the Gateway Airports Authority Limited (GAAL) has placed its Chief Executive Officer, Mokgadi Matli, on precautionary suspension.
GAAL oversees the management of Polokwane International Airport.
On Friday, 31 July 2026, Dr. M. Musitha, Chairperson of the GAAL Board, disclosed this action, stating: “The Board has decided to suspend our Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Mokgadi Matli, effective immediately.”
“We want to reassure all stakeholders that this decision will not impact the operations of Polokwane International Airport.”
Nevertheless, the Board has not disclosed the exact reasons for Matli’s suspension.
On Saturday, 1 August 2026, Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC Violet Mathye, representing GAAL’s shareholders, addressed the suspension, noting that Matli has been placed on precautionary suspension by the Board.
The MEC expressed that she “respects the independence” of the GAAL Board in fulfilling its governance and oversight responsibilities, in line with the Public Finance Management Act, the Company’s Memorandum of Incorporation, and other applicable regulations.
MEC Mathye mentioned that she has engaged with the Board to ensure that due process is followed, the rights of all parties are safeguarded, and that the situation is handled with the urgency and transparency it deserves.
“Crucially, the Accounting Authority has assured us that this precautionary suspension will not disrupt operations at Polokwane International Airport,” MEC Mathye stated.
“The airport remains open and fully operational.”
“The safety of passengers, staff, and all users of the airport is our highest priority.”
The MEC assured all stakeholders, including airlines, tenants, and travelers, that service delivery will proceed uninterrupted during this time.
She also noted that the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety will closely monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
