The suspended Thanduxolo Khalipha, who is already facing assault charges laid by his bodyguard, was placed on 30 days leave after a Matjhabeng council meeting on 25 September. As part of the suspension, the council resolved Khalipha must return municipal assets, including the mayoral vehicle, bodyguard, and security services.

In addition to his municipal suspension, Khalipha has also been suspended by the ANC's Provincial Executive Committee, pending the outcome of the assault case against him.

Stoffel Sibeko, the Provincial Convenor of the Independent South African National Civic Organisation (ISANCO), confirmed a criminal case has been opened against Khalipha. 

‘Refusal to relinquish the municipal assets’

Free State police spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng, stated  a case of "Use of vehicle without the owner’s permission" was registered at the Welkom Police Station on 16 October. The case would be transferred to the Provincial Task Team for further investigation.

Sibeko explained ISANCO's decision to open a case stemmed from Khalipha’s refusal to relinquish the municipal assets, as required by the council’s resolution. “We have opened a case against the mayor for unlawfully being in possession of municipal equipment, including the car and bodyguard. The council made it clear these should be returned so the acting mayor, Hlobohang Mokgomo, can use them for municipal work," he said.

The Matjhabeng Mayoral vehicle. Photo supplied

Khalipha has disputed the council’s decision, describing it as politically motivated. He argued withdrawing his mayoral benefits was intended to undermine his role within the community. In public comments made outside the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court, Khalipha questioned the need to return the municipal vehicle and security services, framing the decision as part of a broader plot against him.

ISANCO had written to the Matjhabeng municipal manager earlier in the week seeking clarification on whether Khalipha was still in possession of the municipal property. “We opened the case after discovering that he was still using municipal assets, despite the council’s resolution. His refusal to return these assets, including publicly questioning why he should, shows a lack of respect for the municipality,” Sibeko added.

The situation has raised concerns about financial strain on the municipality, with Sibeko pointing out the municipality is now incurring additional expenses by renting a vehicle and providing security for the acting mayor. “This leads to irregular expenditure, which is unacceptable.” 

Meanwhile, the EFF's provincial chairperson, Mapheule Liphoko, condemned Khalipha’s actions, calling him “unruly” and a “bully”. Liphoko argued Khalipha’s refusal to comply with the council's decision undermines the authority of the municipality and called for his immediate removal from office.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg