The apology follows a staged protest by members of the Azanian People's Organisation (AZAPO) and the community of Khahliso Moeketsi, calling for charges against the women to be dropped.

Azapo Deputy President in Moqhaka, Kekeletso Khena, told OFM News that Thokozile Mbhele has papers proving that she has been applying for a home since 2008.

Meanwhile, municipal spokesperson Dika Kheswa says that Mbhele was arrested during an illegal occupation which took place around May 2022 in Maokeng.  

He states that in as much as the municipality regrets her arrest – given Mbhele’s advanced age and poor health - the municipality is against illegal land occupation.

Kheswa says it has decided to withdraw the charges against her on compassionate grounds due to her background.

He adds that the municipality will in the meantime provide temporary accommodation to her while they look for a permanent, more dignified residence for her in partnership with other government departments.

Kheswa further urged residents to be patient with the municipality while it is working towards providing permanent residential sites.

OFM News