The Matjhabeng mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha, questions the motives behind his suspension, and the council’s decision to revoke his official car, body guards, and municipal credit card.
On Tuesday 24 September, the council resolved that Khalipha must immediately be placed on unpaid leave for a period not exceeding 30 days.
The municipal manager, Lonwabo Ngoqo, was instructed to retrieve the municipal vehicle, ensure Khalipha’s bodyguard privileges were withdrawn, and that the mayor’s credit card was retrieved.
None of this happened, and Khalipha still enjoys these privileges.
Khalipha was also suspended by the provincial ANC in accordance with the step-aside rule after assault charged were brought against him, after an alleged incident involving his body guards.
He appeared in court on Thursday, 10 October, with his next appearance scheduled for Friday, 1 November.
The case is ongoing.
Sources say that outside court in Odendaalsrus, he claimed Matjhabeng’s action was politically motivated.
He implied the decision to withdraw his municipal vehicle and bodyguard services was to undermine his role within the community.
Khalipha further alleged his “prosecution” was part of a larger conspiracy.
Sources say he hinted that he would soon reveal documents that will expose the real reasons behind his suspension and the assault charges brought against him.
In a letter, the Independent South African National Civic Organisation (Isanco) wanted to know if the resources had been retrieved by the municipal manager. If not, why?
Ngoqo had not been suspended for failing to execute the council’s resolution.
The appointment of Hlobohang Mokhomo as interim Matjhabeng mayor has been extended.
