The municipal workers' union in the Free State said it has always warned against political interference by the Matjhabeng municipal mayor.

This statement comes after the High Court Acting Judge ordered the imprisonment of the mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha, and municipal manager, Ronald Nqoqo, for 30 days for being in contempt of a court order. But the order was suspended, provided that Khalipha and Nqoqo comply with a previous court order handed down by Judge Joseph Mhlambi.

Samwu’s provincial secretary, Tiisetso Mahlatsi, said Samwu has been raising issues concerning Khalipha’s alleged interference.

The duo, including the Welkom-based municipality, were dragged to court over contempt of a court order which directed them to restore services which were disconnected to the complainant. The acting Judge Duduzile Mthimunye then ordered the imprisonment of the two for 30 days but suspended them provided that they comply with a court order to pay.

Free State High Court Acting Judge ordered the imprisonment of Thanduxolo Khalipha and Municipal Manager Ronald Nqoqo for 30 days, for being in contempt of a court order. Photo: Lucky Nkuyane

In a previous court order handed down by Judge Joseph Mhlambi, it directed the duo to restore the complainant's utility services, including prepaid electricity, and to return any property seized and to also write a responding affidavit to the court following the damning judgment against them.

The complainant then later applied for a contempt of court after the duo failed to comply. Acting Judge Mthimunye has since ruled in the favour of the applicant and ordered the arrests. The imprisonment order has, however, been suspended for 30 days provided that they comply with a previous court order by Judge Mhlambi.

Samwu previously raised another concern about the municipality’s non-payment of third-party contributions.

OFM News/Lucky Nkuyane Corné