Matjhabeng mayor found guilty of assault

Share the Article:

The executive mayor of Matjhabeng local municipality, Thanduxolo Khalipa, has been found guilty on charges of assault and crimen injuria by the Odendaalsrus magistrates’ court.

Khalipa faced three charges in total, including one count of assault and two counts of crimen injuria.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority(NPA) Free State spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane, this follows an incident where he allegedly attacked and insulted his driver and bodyguard.

He said that the tensions escalated during the meeting as community members became rowdy, prompting his bodyguards to intervene and attempt to escort him from the scene.

“In response, Khalipa reportedly began to physically assault his bodyguards and made derogatory remarks.

“The incident resulted in the protectors opening a case against the executive mayor, leading to the charges of assault and crimen injuria.

“The case has been remanded to December 12 for sentencing, where the court will consider the appropriate penalties for Khalipa’s actions,” he remarked.

ALSO READ | ‘Deliver on your promises about transformers’: DA to Lesufi

Senokoatsane emphasised the importance of accountability for public officials and the commitment to upholding the law, regardless of an individual’s position.

He added that the NPA will continue to work diligently to ensure justice is served for all citizens.