Johannesburg – The South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) on Monday demanded the arrest of the Matjhabeng local municipality Mayor Thandixolo Khapila for allegedly beating up his bodyguard.
Mayor Khapila reportedly assaulted his bodyguard on 28 February 2024 while returning from an imbizo.
On that fateful day, the bodyguard who is a member of SAMWU and an employee of the Matjhabeng Local Municipality tasked with protecting Mayor Khapila was allegedly beaten up in front of other colleagues.
The bodyguard promptly reported the matter at the Welkom Police Station.
Captain Stephen Thakeng of the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed the registration of a case of common assault against Mayor Khapila.
SAMWU Free State provincial secretary, Tiisetso Mahlatsi said: “Despite the assault case being opened against Khapila, he has neither been charged nor arrested for violating the dignity of an employee…Mahlatsi said the union was worried about the slow progress in handling this case”.
Mahlatsi added: “The lack of action by SAPS in charging and arresting Khapila reinforces his self-proclamation of being powerful and untouchable.
“This action further vindicates the union’s call for Khalipha to be removed as the mayor as he has shown to be a bully and harasser of employees.”
Mahlatsi said the union refused to stand idly by while the justice system was manipulated for the benefit of one individual at the expense of the victim.
The union demanded that Mayor Khapila be charged and arrested for the common assault case lodged against him.
“Furthermore, we urge both the SAPS and the National Prosecuting Agency (NPA) not to incite workers and community members through their lack of action,” said Mahlatsi.
“Should workers and community members take matters into their own hands to hold Khapila accountable, the SAPS and NPA should bear the responsibility for failing to act appropriately and timeously.”
This is a developing story.
Comments from the mayor will be added as soon as possible…