By Phenyo Selinda
The ANC Youth League (ANCYL) of the Lejweleputswa Region, under the leadership of Regional Chairperson Mokgethi Setlhalefo, has issued a stern demand for the resignation of Matjhabeng Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha. This demand follows Khalipa’s arrest on charges of common assault, after allegedly physically and verbally abusing one of his bodyguards.
ANCYL’s Call for Leadership Accountability
The sentiment within the ANCYL is clear: they believe that Khalipa’s actions are a stark violation of the party’s principles and guidelines. “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,” the ANCYL stated. This appeal came shortly after an ordinary meeting held by the ANCYL’s Regional Executive Committee (REC) on June 28th.
Oliver Tambo’s Warning Resurfaces
Quoting ANC stalwart Oliver Tambo, the ANCYL cautioned against internal divisions and deceitful individuals within the party. “Beware the wedge driver,” Tambo’s words echoed in their statement, which contrasts sharply with Khalipa’s apparent disregard for the ANC’s step-aside provision—a rule demanding that members facing serious criminal charges relinquish their leadership roles until their cases are resolved.
Khalipha has been formally charged on several counts since April, and despite the seriousness of these allegations, he continues to hold office. This stance has further eroded the trust and confidence the public once had in Matjhabeng’s leadership.
The Inciting Incident
The controversy surrounding Mayor Khalipha began on February 28, 2024, during a tumultuous community meeting at Kutlwanong High School in Odendaalsrus. The meeting turned violent, culminating in a stone-pelting incident that shattered the rear window of Khalipa’s vehicle. It was amidst this chaos that Khalipa allegedly assaulted his bodyguard, Frank Moreroa.
Recounting the incident, Moreroa revealed that Khalipha’s assault left him disoriented. “Thanduxolo slapped me so hard that I saw the stars and got dizzy in that moment,” he said. Khalipa’s rage reportedly stemmed from his belief that his security detail had failed to protect him adequately during the community unrest. Moreroa and another bodyguard, Sphamandla Msomi, have since 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 has expressed deep dissatisfaction with his continued tenure, citing a significant dip in electoral support in Matjhabeng—a decline they attribute to Khalipha’s controversial conduct.
ANCYL’s Broader Governance Concerns
In addition to calling for Khalipha’s resignation, the ANCYL also underscored the importance of youth and female representation within the government. They extended their congratulations to newly appointed leaders in the Free State government, including Premier Maqueen Letshoha-Mathae, but voiced discontent over the lack of youth representation in executive roles. “We are, however, confident in the leadership of Cde Maqueen to drive and lead the transformation agenda of the Free State government,” they added.
The ANCYL emphasised that the inclusion of young people in strategic government roles is vital for bringing fresh perspectives and energy needed to advance the aspirations of South Africa’s citizens.
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