The Matjhabeng mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha, appeared in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday (12/12) where he was fined R5,000 or three months’ imprisonment for the assault charge and R1,000 or one month’s imprisonment for two counts of crimen injuria. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The charges stem from an altercation during a heated community meeting earlier this year. Khalipha reportedly assaulted and insulted the victim who has been the mayor’s driver and bodyguard since tension escalated among community members. Other members of the security detail allegedly attempted to diffuse the situation and escorted him away from the scene.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the judgment, emphasising that public officials must be held accountable. 

“Justice must prevail, irrespective of an individual’s position or status,” said NPA spokesperson for Northern Cape and Free State, Mojalefa Senokoatsane. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law. 

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) had expressed satisfaction after Khalipha was found guilty, but called for his dismissal as mayor.

“While we are pleased with the court’s decision, the workers have long raised complaints about the mayor’s bullying and unprofessional conduct. Unfortunately, the ANC leadership has often sided with him, disregarding workers’ concerns,” said Cosatu provincial secretary-general Tiisetso Mahlatsi.

Khalipha had already been suspended by the ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) while his court case was ongoing. Community members and workers remain at loggerheads, some wanting him removed from office due to poor service delivery. 

Others were chanting with joy after the sentence was handed down on Thursday, expecting Khalipha to commence with his duties as mayor of Matjhabeng.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh/cg