Newcastle KZN: DA KZN leader, Francois Rodgers, questions whether the ANC’s step aside rule excludes Ramaphosa supporters

The Democratic Alliance has called on Newcastle mayor, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, to step aside following his appearance in the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court on charges including theft and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Recent reports stated the charges stem from an incident last year in which the mayor allegedly got into a fight with a fibre contractor and his employees.

According to Rodgers, Cyril Ramaphosa, who is the president of Mahlaba’s organization, the ANC, announced in August last year that all party members with pending cases must resign from all official positions immediately pending the resolution of their cases.

“It is only fair that Mahlaba step aside as well,” Rodgers said. “Mahlaba has proved to be an incompetent leader.”

He explained that Mahlaba had portrayed himself as an unprofessional mayor with no control over his temper over the years.

“In 2019, a video of him in an altercation with striking municipal employees went viral on social media,” recalls Rodgers.

“He was also arrested in connection with the murder of an African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) leader, but the charges were dropped after the death of a key witness.”

“We can’t have a mayor who is constantly in and out of court. His shady dealings reflect poorly on the municipality. Newcastle residents deserve better than a bully masquerading as mayor delivering services and getting things done,” Rodgers exclaimed.

“Mahlaba is known to be a staunch Ramaphosa supporter and so, must step aside.”

“If he refuses to step aside, the ANC has to force him to do so. Otherwise, this will be an indication that the resolution was catered for some and not for the ANC president’s staunch supporters,” he concluded.

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