The most widely accepted theory on the origin of the name Potchefstroom is that the name is composed of three words: Potgieter, chef and stroom.

The first syllable is that of Potgieter, the second from the fact that he was a "chef" or a leader of the emigrants, and the third signifying the Mooi River.

[3] In February 2013, then mayor of Tlokwe, prof. Annette Combrink declared that she would refuse to use the new official vehicle that was delivered to her.

Combrink represents the opposition Democratic Alliance but was elected mayor due to disagreements in the ANC led council.

In the election of 18 May 2011 the African National Congress (ANC) won a majority of thirty seats in the council.