The ANC Women’s League in the North West is demanding the retraction of Tswaing municipality mayor’s special leave following a leaked sex tape this week.
ANC member and mayor of the Tswaing local municipality, Norah Mahlangu, found herself in hot water when an explicit nude video of her was leaked in a WhatsApp group of her party’s provincial structures.
The explicit video further circulated on social media, where the mayor is seen stripping off her black bra, and later began fondling herself.
Media reports state that Mahlangu was instructed by the ANC in the province to take an immediate month-long special leave - she is expected to return in office on March 16.
The ANCWL provincial task team coordinator, Nombuyiselo Adoons, expressed deep concern regarding the mayor’s unfortunate ordeal.
Adoons pointed out that Mahlangu was victimised when the video was leaked without her consent, which violated her constitutional right to privacy.
“As the ANCWL PTT, we express our deepest concern regarding the recent victimisation of Mahlangu, who found herself at the centre of a distressing situation following an unauthorised leaking of her private, intimate video by individuals once considered her close friends.
“Such conduct is a blatant violation of her privacy and dignity, and constitutes a serious infringement on her rights,” said Adoons.
Adoons slammed the ANC’s provincial structures for punishing the mayor, instead of providing the necessary support for her wellbeing. Mahlangu is said to be in a depressed state.
“We believe this decision not only undermines her position as mayor, but also perpetuates a harmful culture wherein victims of privacy violations are punished rather than supported,” said Adoons.
She further said Mahlangu has taken accountability of her actions by submitting an apology to the ANC and the community.
In addition, the party should recognise the mayor’s apology as it illustrated her commitment to the ANC and community duties.
“We therefore demand that the ANC withdraw its letter for Mahlangu’s special leave with immediate effect,” said Adoons.
She also said the women’s league is demanding the ANC to empower and protect women’s rights.
“The leaking of private material without consent is a criminal act and it must be addressed as such. Victims should be supported, not further traumatised through administrative or disciplinary measures.
“We stand in solidarity with comrade Mahlangu and call on all relevant authorities and party structures to take decisive steps against the perpetrators,” said Adoons.
The Star