The assault case against the suspended executive mayor of Matjhabeng, Thanduxolo Khalipha, has been postponed to 4 September, following Khalipha’s request to change his attorney. He is now represented by Schoeman Attorneys in Welkom.
The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samwu) is dismayed by Khalipha’s use of municipal resources during his step-aside. Motlatsi Sidyam, Samwu Matjhabeng chairman, says Khalipha was brought to the court by municipal security officers using council’s vehicle.
“The abuse of public resources continues. Service delivery was also compromised, as employees were refused access to the fleet. No work took place today despite the refuse removal backlog and many other outstanding challenges. Most employees had to return home as they had no transport,” he said.
The union has also noted with concern the intimidation and threats levelled against its members.
“We have been briefed that there’s a plan to charge and fire the two bodyguards for standing up against Khalipha’s assault and bullying. We will support our members until justice is served”, Sidyam said.
