By Phenyo Selinda
The African National Congress (ANC) in the Lejweleputswa region has taken a decisive step by implementing the step-aside rule for Matjhabeng Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha. This follows Khalipha’s arrest on charges of common assault after allegedly physically and verbally abusing one of his bodyguards.
In a recent statement, the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) of the Lejweleputswa Region, led by Regional Chairperson Mokgethi Setlhalefo, demanded Khalipha’s resignation. The ANCYL stated, “We are appealing to the conscience of the leadership of the African National Congress to suspend the Executive Mayor of Matjhabeng Local Municipality for refusing to step aside after being charged since the 17th of April 2024.” This demand came shortly after an ordinary meeting held by the ANCYL’s Regional Executive Committee (REC) on June 28th.
ANCYL’s Call for Leadership Accountability
The ANCYL’s stance is firm: Khalipha’s actions are seen as a serious violation of the party’s principles. They referenced ANC stalwart Oliver Tambo’s warning against internal divisions and deceitful individuals within the party. “Beware the wedge driver,” Tambo’s words echoed, highlighting the contrast with Khalipha’s apparent disregard for the ANC’s step-aside provision—a rule that requires members facing serious criminal charges to relinquish their leadership roles until their cases are resolved.
Khalipha has been formally charged since April, yet he continues to hold office, eroding public trust and confidence in Matjhabeng’s leadership.
The Inciting Incident
The controversy began on February 28, 2024, during a chaotic community meeting at Kutlwanong High School in Odendaalsrus. The meeting turned violent, with stone-throwing that shattered the rear window of Khalipha’s vehicle. It was during this chaos that Khalipha allegedly assaulted his bodyguard, Frank Moreroa.
Moreroa recounted the incident, stating, “Thanduxolo slapped me so hard that I saw the stars and got dizzy in that moment.” Khalipha’s rage reportedly stemmed from his belief that his security detail had failed to protect him during the unrest. Following the incident, Moreroa and another bodyguard, Sphamandla Msomi, resigned, fearing for their safety.
Legal Proceedings and Political Fallout
Despite the gravity of the charges, Khalipha remains out on a warning and is expected to appear in court again in August 2024. The ANCYL expressed deep dissatisfaction with his continued tenure, attributing a significant dip in electoral support in Matjhabeng to Khalipha’s controversial conduct.
ANC REC Statement
The ANC Lejweleputswa REC held its ordinary Regional Executive Committee meeting on 1 July 2024. The meeting addressed various issues, including the implementation of the step-aside rule. The REC’s statement included the following points:
• Youth Month: The REC aims to reinvigorate ANC-led programs and activities to preserve the rich history of the liberation struggle.
• Elections Outcome and GNU: The REC applauded the NEC for accepting the election results and acknowledged the tireless work of volunteers. A special REC meeting will be convened for an in-depth analysis of the election results.
• Governance and Service Delivery: The REC plans to visit all municipalities monthly to assess the state of local government and track progress towards achieving manifesto commitments.
• Organisational Matters: The REC emphasised the importance of REC sub-committees meeting to develop their plans of action.Regarding the step-aside rule, the statement noted, “The Step Aside rule is used to save the image of the ANC rather than as a tool to deal with comrades. It affords the accused an opportunity to deal with the matter without any lingering attachments to the ANC, especially at government and leadership levels.”
After thorough deliberations, the REC resolved that the Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) should apply the step-aside rule to Mayor Khalipha, as per the resolution of the 54th National Conference. The REC called for ANC members to refrain from abusing social media platforms to the detriment of the organisation and its image.
The statement concluded with a call to action for the ANC members and supporters to maintain unity and uphold the values and principles of the party. The REC remains committed to ensuring effective governance and service delivery in the region.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate