By: Sello Theletsane
The African National Congress in the Free State has suspended its Chief Whip in the provincial legislature and former mayor of QwaQwa Vusumuzi Tshabalala.
According to the suspension letter which Africa News Global has seen, Tshabalala is accused of canvassing and endorsing independent candidates in the upcoming Local Government Elections.
The letter from Provincial Coordinator Paseka Nompondo states that: “There is evidence to the effect that you are canvassing, supporting and/or campaigning for independent candidates and/or other political parties not in alliance with the ANC against duly endorsed ANC candidates. Your conduct has therefore contravened Rule 25.17.13, 25.17.14, 25.17.17.4 (1), (2) and (3). The contravention of these rules constitutes a very serious breach of the Constitution.”
Nompondo added that in a review of the above, Tshabalala’s conduct as an ANC member and a Public Representative constituted serious misconduct which will warrant a disciplinary hearing.
“Please be advised that you are suspended with immediate effect, in your capacity as an ANC member and Chief Whip, pending the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings against you,” Nompondo said.
Tshabalala has rubbished the allegations, insisting he was removed as he is perceived as a threat.
“The ANC is not fair. They charge me for campaigning for another political party which is not true. The suspension is about getting rid of people who threaten their plans for the coming conference,” he said.
