The regional structure expressed concern over Thanduxolo Khalipha’s leadership and conduct, arguing that it has contributed to division within the organisation and instability in the struggling municipality. Khalipha was named among ANC members who could face disciplinary action for allegedly bringing the party into disrepute.

During a media briefing at Luthuli House in Johannesburg last week, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula said the national executive committee (NEC) had received and considered a report concerning Khalipha, minister Sisi Tolashe, former police minister Bheki Cele, ANC Sedibeng regional secretary Jason Mkhwane and City of Johannesburg MMC Sithembiso Zungu.

“They have brought the party into disrepute, and the national disciplinary committee is going to recommend a sanction,” Mbalula told a media briefing. The report was presented to the NEC by the ANC integrity commission over the weekend.

The ANC regional executive committee (REC) in Lejweleputswa said it had noted developments regarding Khalipha following his conviction for assaulting his bodyguard in 2024. Lejweleputswa chairperson Xolile Toki says the REC remains deeply concerned about Khalipha’s conduct and what it views as his disregard for the organisation’s collective discipline and authority.

“The REC is aware of the allegations and reports regarding the ill-treatment of senior officials within the municipality, including the resignation of senior engineers, the former municipal manager, and the technical director.

“The ill-treatment goes further to workers of the municipality, even to an extent that Samwu had to lead a three-month-long strike advancing the rights of workers in the municipality. Till this day, workers are still confronted by an executive mayor who thinks he is bigger than the ANC and is protected by the ANC Free State officials.”

The ANC cannot approach the 2026 local government elections while being represented by leaders whose conduct undermines the organisation’s image and credibility, Toki said.

“The movement must present ethical, disciplined and community-centred leadership to the people. It is for this reason that the REC strongly supports the urgent reconfiguration of the Matjhabeng troika, including the removal of Khalipha as executive mayor in the interests of the organisation and people of Matjhabeng,” he added.

Toki also revealed the regional working committee of Lejweleputswa had convened a meeting with the Matjhabeng troika and senior municipal management to address governance concerns. However, Khalipha failed to attend the meeting and did not submit an apology despite the municipality facing what the ANC described as a serious governance crisis.

Municipal leadership at the meeting reportedly acknowledged that Matjhabeng is grappling with severe service delivery failures and deep institutional instability, he said.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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