The Democratic Alliance (DA) from the Okhahlamba Municipality have made serious allegations that a man was held up at gunpoint and beaten by Okhahlamba officials including the Deputy Mayor, Nothile Shabalala. Bheki Khanyile of the African National Congress (ANC) has strongly denied these allegations.
The DA recently released a press statement saying that the victim had been involved in exposing the illegal R1.4 million pre-payment for a Human Rights Day event that was not on the official municipality roster. “The assault on the alleged whistler-blower had taken place on Thursday evening, 21 April, at the ANC PCO office in Bergville on Thatam Road,” said Councillor Michael Buthelezi. Cllr Buthelezi explained that evidence was handed over to the Council and this led to the motion of no confidence vote by the mayor. The motion was held, however, the mayor kept his seat. Cllr Buthelezi said that the DA will continue to support those who expose graft and corruption.
Cllr Buthelezi further reported that the victim had gone to Bergville SAPS and opened a case. Warrant Officer Bash Khan from the Ladysmith SAPS said that the police can confirm the assault. “Bergville detectives are investigating two cases of assault. The incidents took place yesterday in the Bergville CBD. Detectives are gathering more evidence and are preparing the dockets for it to be sent to the Senior Public Prosecutor,” said W/O Khan. The ANC further stated that an internal meeting was held and that they can’t believe that individuals within the various political parties are prepared to go this far to create and make up false information. “I hope that the victim will stand his ground, as I fear that he might be intimidated and have the matter withdrawn,” concluded Cllr Buthelezi.
