They’re angry over the provincial leadership’s continued support for controversial Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha, despite his criminal record and controversial actions.

In a letter addressed to ANC national officials and the National Executive Committee, Pule Maile –ward 31 ANC councillor and Free State member of Nehawu and Cosatu – slammed the provincial leadership for compromising the integrity of the renewal initiative by shielding Khalipha. He was recently fined R5,000 and an additional R1,000 penalty for assaulting his bodyguard.

Maile said the ANC leadership must choose between protecting Khalipha or honouring its commitment to restore public trust in the party. He referenced Pres.l Ramaphosa’s remarks during the ANC’s 54th National Conference and addec that organisational renewal is essential to the party’s survival.

“The Free State leadership has deviated from its duty to actively pursue renewal. Khalipha’s continued presence in leadership undermines efforts to rebuild the ANC and regain the trust of the masses,” Maile stated.

He also referred to remarks by former Pres. Thabo Mbeki at a recent Free State Provincial Lekgotla in Welkom, where Mbeki said the ANC must move beyond rhetoric to tangible action if it were to win back voter support.

Maile accused Khalipha of repeatedly bringing the ANC into disrepute, citing his actions at the funeral of the late Ntate Tsiu Matsepe. Khalipha allegedly bypassed protocol to deliver an address, overshadowing acting Mayor Hlobohang Mokhomo, who was the legitimate representative of Matjhabeng at the ceremony.

“Khalipha’s actions were an attempt to embarrass Mokhomo in front of mourners. His conduct during this official funeral was disrespectful and further evidence of his unfitness for office,” Maile wrote.

Maile also called for the council to take disciplinary action against Khalipha as his criminal record and violation of the Councillor’s Code of Conduct warrant such measures. “Assaulting employees during working hours is a serious transgression. Khalipha’s dismissal from office is long overdue.”

Free State ANC PEC member Sello Dithebe, also expressed frustration about the state of affairs in Matjhabeng. “Well over 30 years after the triumph of constitutional supremacy and the rule of law … the recent expulsion of its former notorious president and secretary general the ANC in the Free State cannot and must not affront the sensibilities of its motive forces and society in general.”

He said this would happen if “the gravity of violent behaviour of the former mayor of Matjhabeng, … were to be rationalised or euphemised”.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mc