Speaker Xolani Mthukwane has confirmed he opened an assault case against Mayor Bonolo Mocwaledi following the incident in Koffiefontein. Mthukwane refrained from commenting further as he is “waiting for the law to take its course”.

Free State police spokesperson Sinah Mpakane confirmed the police are investigating the case, but no arrests have yet been made following the altercation after a council meeting on Tuesday (15/10). Mthukwane had requested that the meeting be postponed, citing procedural issues. It was rescheduled, but tensions flared, leading to a heated argument between the mayor and the speaker.

Mpakane said before the confrontation, Mocwaledi followed Mthukwane and they got into a heated argument and she allegedly struck his chest with a diary, prompting Mthukwane to open an assault case against her.

Free State mayors have of late been involved in numerous controversies. Matjhabeng Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha faces assault charges after allegedly attacking his bodyguard. Khalipha has since been suspended by the provincial ANC in accordance with its step-aside rule while the court case against him continues.

Meanwhile, Masilonyana Mayor Dimakatso Modise is embroiled in scandal. Municipal workers are calling for her removal after attempts to oust the CFO led to mass protests. The workers have downed tools, leaving service delivery at a standstill in the already troubled municipality.

Community members have expressed growing frustration over the lack of basic services and many have called for swift action to restore stability and governance.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg