ANC silent on Musina mayor and councilors charge allegations

The African National Congress (ANC) in the Vhembe region of Limpopo has remained tight-lipped on reports that nine of its councilors , including the embattled Mayor of Musina Local Municipality, Godfrey Mawela, have been formally charged for allegedly fueling political instability within the municipal council.

Speculation intensified this week following a meeting between Musina councilors and the ANC provincial leadership, led by Provincial Secretary Reuben Madadzhe.

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The meeting reportedly focused on tensions within the ANC caucus, which have been blamed for paralysis in the municipality’s operations.

While refusing to confirm or deny whether charges have indeed been filed, ANC Vhembe regional spokesperson Frank Tshililo urged the public to wait for an official announcement from the party. He, however, acknowledged that divisions had gripped the council following the outcomes of this year’s regional conference.

“Yes, I can confirm that the ANC caucus within that council has been divided since the outcome of this year’s regional conference, with some unhappy with the outcome,” Tshililo said during an interview on Energy FM and Choice FM on Thursday evening. “But I can say now that our councilors are working together, and the next council meetings will be able to form a quorum.” 

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The disruptions began when a faction of ANC councilors allegedly boycotted meetings in protest, leaving the council unable to constitute a quorum and effectively halting municipal business. Tshililo warned that such conduct is a serious offence within the party.

“Sabotaging the council can lead to various penalties and the worst being expulsion from the party if members are found guilty,” he said.