While the ANC in the North West confirmed that they have suspended the Klerksdorp-based ward 25 councillor, Action Society says the ANC should do much more than just suspend someone from “taking part in the life of the movement” when caught red-handed sexually abusing minors and abusing their position for sexual favours. The organisation in a media statement alleges that since the arrest of the councillor, other men and women have spoken out about the councillor’s abuse of power when employing people.

Action Centre coordinator, Tshepi Mmekwa, says they are of the view that if the ruling party does not fire the councillor, they will be funding and condoning the sexual abuse of minors. “We want to know why he was not adequately vetted before his appointment and why the ANC only acted after his deeds went public,” she concludes. The councillor in question is charged with two counts of statutory rape. According to the organisation’s website, during the first nine months of 2022, there were murders of 864 children, the attempted murder of 909 children and 5 502 cases of assault to do grievous bodily harm towards children.

ALSO READ: North West ANC councillor arrested for sexual misconduct

The provincial police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone explained that the councillor allegedly shared a picture of his private parts with the complainant. 

The second case is of two counts of statutory rape, registered on Saturday evening 6 May 2023 by the parents of two boys, aged 15. The arrest of the councillor follows after a recorded video of a man having sexual intercourse with a boy went viral on social media platforms. “Investigations into the incidents continue. Members of the community and civil society organisations are requested to exercise patience and allow the police to conduct an investigation,” added Mokgwabone.

The ANC’s provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo, stated they were shocked by the video circulating on social media platforms, showing one of their public representatives engaged in a sexual act. 

“Rising from this despicable behaviour, the ANC has suspended the membership of the member in question with immediate effect. This suspension will hold until the outcomes of the disciplinary process. He is suspended under Rule 25.17.4 of the Constitution of the African National Congress.” He further conveyed sympathies to all the victims and called on others who have not come forward, to do so.

OFM News