DA calls for Ba-Phalaborwa mayor’s removal over rape case scandal

The Democratic Alliance caucus in the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality, Limpopo, has called for the immediate removal of ANC Mayor Mirriam Malatji from office.

Lebo Rakoma, DA caucus leader in Ba-Phalaborwa, demands that Malatji “either resign in disgrace, be recalled by the ANC, or face formal removal”.

This follows a police complaint filed by a municipal intern in a rape case (case number 269/7/24 – Namakgale).

“The complainant alleges that Mayor Malatji, accompanied by Exco and ANC member Thompson Nkuna, visited her and her family to coerce her into withdrawing the rape charges against the accused—a senior municipal manager,” said Rakoma.

“A leaked voice recording of the encounter, submitted as evidence, reportedly reveals the Mayor and Nkuna claiming to act on behalf of the accused, who sought forgiveness and offered monetary compensation in exchange for the charges being dropped. Tragically, the accused has since committed suicide.”

Rakoma said the actions of Malatji