Matjhabeng’s mayor has been arrested for allegedly assaulting his bodyguard.

Thanduxulo Kalipha (63) was arrested on Thursday (18/4) and released on a warning to appear in court in a month’s time.

Free State police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng confirmed to OFM News that Khalipha was arrested and formally charged. He faces charges of common assault and two counts of crimen injuria. Khalipha has been summoned to appear in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court on 24 May.

‘His bodyguards removed him from the scene’

Khalipha allegedly slapped one of his bodyguards and swore at him in early March. A common assault case was opened. The incident took place after the mayor attended a community meeting at the Kutlwanong High School in Odendaalsrus. His bodyguards removed him from the scene and helped him into a car when violence erupted.

Community members started throwing stones at the mayor’s vehicle, and broke the rear window. An investigation into the matter followed shortly after the incident was reported to the police.

According to reports, a statement by the bodyguard explained he was instructed to stop the vehicle. When he did, the mayor allegedly slapped him four times and swore at him and his colleague. The mayor then instructed the bodyguards to take the damaged car to the office while getting into another vehicle.

’Protesters wanted to block the mayor from entering Phomolong’

This was not the first time residents attacked or blocked the mayor from addressing them. OFM News previously reported that protesters wanted to prevent him from entering Phomolong to speak to them.

Political parties and unions have called for Khalipha to resign after complaints about his conduct towards employees, and also maladministration allegations, including misuse of municipal property.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mc