Murder-accused Newcastle mayor could lose his job, says ANC

Ntuthuko Mahlaba, the mayor of Newcastle in KZN who has been accused of murder, is facing the prospect of being stripped of his mayoral chains.

Following Mahlaba's release on R20,000 bail at the Madedeni Magistrate's Court on Monday, ANC provincial spokesperson Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu said the ANC provincial executive committee (PEC) stood by its decision that anyone accused of a serious crime must be recalled.

According to Simelane-Zulu, Mahlaba had between 14 and 30 days to meet the PEC to discuss his position. The PEC is then expected to pronounce on the matter.

The mayor was arrested more than a week ago in connection with the 2016 murder of former ANC Youth League official Wandile Ngobeni. Mahlaba, a medical doctor who was sworn in as mayor in February, was remanded in custody after his first appearance last week Monday.

As Mahlaba made his bid for bail on Monday, hundreds of supporters dressed in ANC regalia called for his release. The state did not oppose bail. A strong police contingent was present at the courthouse.

Magistrate Nozipho Khuzwayo read out part of an affidavit that was submitted to the court by Mahlaba’s lawyers. Khuzwayo noted that Mahlaba - who is facing charges of murder, attempted murder and conspiring to commit murder - had committed to working with the court until the matter was finalised. The court also heard that Mahlaba had surrendered his travel documents and would therefore not be a flight risk.

Khuzwayo said Mahlaba would be required to adhere to his strict bail conditions, which included him reporting to the Newcastle police station every Wednesday between 7am and 6pm.

Mahlaba briefly addressed his supporters after being granted bail. He told TimesLIVE: "Whatever happens, we must always protect the image of the ANC. We must respect the families of the victims."

Simelane-Zulu added on behalf of the ANC: "We are glad that this day has finally come, because as far as we are concerned, when we are able to go to court, that is when we are able to deal with these matters.

"The fact that he was granted bail is for us is an indication that the law and the court is actually considering the matter very thoughtfully and not taking very rash decisions."

The matter was postponed to April 30.