Rustenburg - Firm action should be taken against Rustenburg mayor Mpho Khunou if he is found guilty of harassing a woman, the ANC Women's League’s Young Women's Desk said on Monday.
In a statement issued on Friday, provincial convenor Galebekwe Tlhapi said: "Allegations levelled against the mayor of Rustenburg cannot be taken (lightly) due to his reputable position as leader within the ANC-led government ... We as the Young Women’s Desk support the victim for taking the matter to court and stand with her until the court rules otherwise.
"We also sensitise some members of the organisation to not deduce that this matter (is a) political ploy against the mayor, but request parties involved to allow the process to unfold and deal with the matter accordingly in respect of the court’s decision.
"We ... reiterate that our stand against gender-based violence holds no fear or favour on perpetrators found guilty by the court of law (of) committing heinous crimes."
She fell short of calling on the ANC interim provincial committee to suspend Khunou, instead calling on the committee to “lead by example in ensuring a fair and safe environment for the most vulnerable and voiceless people, and act swiftly on the matter whilst investigations are ongoing“.
On Monday, the Rustenburg local municipality said it would not comment on the ongoing court proceeding involving Khunou.
"Rustenburg local municipality has noted the developments regarding court proceedings which are currently unfolding, in which the executive mayor councillor Mpho Khunou is involved.
"The municipality will respect the court processes and will not comment on the matter, which is linked to the executive mayor in his personal capacity," said spokesperson David Magae.
Khunou is facing allegations of harassment in the Bafokeng Magistrate's Court in Tlhabane, where he appeared on Friday and is expected to appear again later this month.
A woman accused him of distributing pictures of her naked, and violating her privacy.
Political Bureau