By Phenyo Selinda
Phiwe Mathe, the ANC Youth League Free State Spokesperson and Deputy Director of Community Outreach Programs at Free State Public Works, is facing serious legal proceedings for allegedly assaulting his pregnant girlfriend. Mathe has stated that “the matter has been handed over to the court” and that he has been advised by his legal advisor not to respond to any media inquiries.
The incident, which reportedly occurred in May, has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting the ongoing issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa. Mathe’s arrest led to his initial court appearance on May 24, where he was granted bail of R500. However, he missed a subsequent court date on June 14, prompting further legal action. The case was addressed again at the Bloemfontein Magistrate Court on Friday, June 28, where Mathe appeared and responded to the charges.
Official Responses to the Allegations
MEC Dibolelo Mance reaffirmed the department’s stance on GBV in a statement to Phenyo Selinda, Central News journalist: “We still stand with the media statement we released, and we have referred everything else to the legal system.”
ANCYL Provincial Secretary, Mayibuye Bangani, also speaking to Phenyo Selinda, expressed the league’s firm stance on GBV. Bangani emphasised that the ANC Youth League does not condone gender-based violence and is running several awareness campaigns in Bloemfontein. These campaigns focus on promoting positive fatherhood and working with the police and schools to address GBV.
Bangani stressed that while the ANCYL supports due process in GBV cases, the league does not endorse anyone involved in such acts. He noted, “Allegations are different from confirmed participation in GBV. Our main focus is to teach young people to be present fathers and to be vigilant about legal proceedings.”
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Update
The NPA reported that the accused made a brief court appearance, with the matter remanded to July 12 for further attorney proceedings. Emphasis was placed on the protection of the complainant, given the sensitive nature of the domestic violence case.
MEC Mance’s Statement on Allegations Against a Staff Member
Mlungisi Maqubela, Head of Communications & Media Liaison, conveyed MEC Dibolelo Mance’s disappointment regarding the allegations against a departmental official. Mance highlighted the ongoing battle against GBV in the Free State, citing recent senseless killings of women.
On June 26, 2024, Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and MEC Mance participated in a march against GBV in Bloemfontein. Mance expressed deep disappointment over the allegations and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to opposing the abuse of vulnerable members of society.
“The department is a strong proponent of women’s emancipation and fiercely opposes the abuse of women and children. The matter is currently before the court, and it would be inappropriate for the department to comment further at this stage,” said Mance.
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae’s Stance on GBV
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae participated in the “March for Justice” against GBV and femicide on June 26 in Bloemfontein. The march followed the tragic killing of Judith Mpho Moalusi, allegedly by her boyfriend, on June 16, 2024.
Letsoha-Mathae called for a zero-tolerance stance towards GBV and urged all sectors of society to work together to end this scourge. “All South Africans must act to prevent abuse and ensure a safer society for women and children. Gender-based violence is a societal issue and must be addressed collectively,” she said.
The Premier emphasised the need for a collective effort to eradicate GBV, highlighting the signing of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill (GBVF) as a significant step forward.
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