The DA calls on the ANC to suspend the membership of the recently elected ANC Ward Councillor in Elias Motsoaledi Municipality, Tobius Malope, with immediate effect.
This follows after Malope, who first appeared in court on 13 January 2025 on extortion charges, was once again arrested on additional charges. On 26 January 2025, he appeared in court after another local mining company came forward with further allegations against him.
More than 30 days have passed since the first arrest, yet the ANC has failed to suspend its disgraced Councillor. This is clear evidence that the ANC does not take accountability seriously.
Local government plays a critical role in delivering essential services, but once again, the ANC has chosen to stand with those who abuse their power instead of the people they are meant to serve, and this is unacceptable.
The mining industry in Sekhukhune is vital for job creation and economic growth. However, corruption and intimidation are forcing mining companies to shut down, worsening the unemployment crisis. We should be supporting the mining sector, not driving away investors through extortion and political interference.
While political parties should be prioritising service delivery and job creation, the ANC has once again shown its true colours – not only enriching itself but protecting those who engage in corruption.
The only thing holding back the jewel that is Sekhukhune is the ANC. The DA will continue to fight against corruption, protect businesses from political exploitation, and most importantly, ensure that local government serves people and not the pockets of corrupt politicians.