By Phenyo Selinda
Bloemfontein – Phiwe Mathe, the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) Free State Spokesperson and Deputy Director of Community Outreach Programs at Free State Public Works, has stepped aside from his positions following allegations of assaulting the mother of his child. Mathe’s legal troubles began in May, leading to his initial court appearance on May 24, where he was granted bail of R500.
The incident, reported to Bainsvlei police, saw Mathe arrested and subsequently appearing in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court. His case, initially heard on June 28, has been postponed to July 12.
Stepping Aside for the Sake of the Organisation
In a letter addressed to ANCYL Free State Provincial Secretary Mayibuye Bangani, Mathe expressed his decision to step aside, citing the ANC’s 54th National Conference resolution on fighting crime and corruption. The resolution mandates that ANC leaders and members formally charged with serious crimes must step aside from their positions pending the finalisation of their cases.
Mathe stated, “Having been indicted to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s court on a charge of Common Assault DV, I have decided to step aside from my duties as both a PEC member and Spokesperson pending the finalisation of the case in the best interests of the organisation.” He affirmed his commitment to the ANC’s principles, recognising the organisation’s right to impose terms on his participation during this period.
Defence Against Allegations
Despite stepping aside, Mathe vehemently denies the assault allegations. He acknowledged that the woman in question is the mother of his child but insists that her claims are false. “I did not assault her as per her claims, and I will prove all this in court as I have nothing to hide,” Mathe said. He suggested that the charges might be a political ploy to tarnish his image as a young politician.
ANCYL’s Stance on Gender-Based Violence
ANCYL Provincial Secretary, Mayibuye Bangani, reiterated the league’s strong stance against gender-based violence (GBV). He highlighted ongoing campaigns to raise awareness about GBV and support for positive fatherhood in Bloemfontein. “The ANCYL is not in support of anyone that participates in GBV, but allegations are different from someone who is part of GBV,” Bangani stated.
Bangani emphasised the importance of following due process, especially in sensitive cases involving personal relationships and children. He noted that while the ANCYL does not have a step-aside policy like the ANC, they are committed to handling such matters with the seriousness they deserve.
Official Reactions
MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Dibolelo Mance, expressed disappointment over the allegations against Mathe. The department, a strong proponent of women’s rights, will refrain from commenting further as the matter is sub judice. Mance emphasised, “I have little to no sympathy for men who abuse women and I further call for the law to take its course without fear or favour.”
The Premier of the Free State, MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, also condemned GBV, urging all sectors of society to work together to end the scourge. She highlighted the government’s commitment to zero-tolerance towards abuse and called for collective efforts to ensure a safer society for women and children.
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