ANCYL acknowledges FS leader Mathe’s decision to step aside over GBV charges.

By Lehlohonolo Lehana.

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) has acknowledged the voluntary decision by Phiwe Mathe to step aside from his duties as a Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) member following his indictment to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s court.

Mathe is charged with assaulting the mother of his child.

Mathe was arrested in May by Bains­vlei police in Bloemfontein after the complainant opened a case against him. He was granted bail of R500 during his first appearance on May 24.

The matter was postponed to July 12.

He wrote a voluntary step aside letter to the League’s Provincial Secretary, Mayibuye Bangani. In the letter, Mathe has indicated that he has also referred the matter to the Integrity Commission for recommendations to the ANC PEC in the province.

Bangani wrote to the ANCYL provincial PEC and the youth league NEC, where he said that the Free State PEC has guided the process that needs to be followed in Mathe’s case of common assault.

In a statement, the youth league said, “the 54th National Conference, which mandates that ANC leaders and members who are formally charged with corruption or other serious crimes must immediately step aside from all leadership positions in the ANC, legislatures, or other government structures pending the finalisation of their cases.”

“This resolution was reaffirmed by the NEC meeting held on 6-8 December 2020, emphasizing the need to clearly distinguish between the organisation and those who engage in criminal activities.”

“As an autonomous body within the overall structure of the ANC, the ANCYL is guided by the political and ideological objectives of the ANC.”

Therefore, Mathe’s decision reflects a commitment to maintaining the integrity and principles of our organisation. He has also referred the matter to the Integrity Commission for consideration and recommendations to the PEC of the ANC in the Free State, read the statement.”

“His recusal will remain in effect until the matter is concluded, at which point further communication will be provided.”

“The ANCYL is committed to upholding the values and resolutions of the ANC, ensuring that all members adhere to the highest standards of integrity and accountability, concluded the statement.”

Mathe, who also works at the provincial Department of Public Works, maintains that he is innocent, claiming there is a political conspiracy behind the criminal matter.

He agreed that the woman in question is his child’s mother.

“I did not assault her as per her claims, and I will prove all this in court as I have nothing to hide. The version of events before the court is false. The matter is being dealt with by the court, and I can’t reveal [the] merits of the case as the matter is subjudice,” said Mathe.

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