Supporters claim the accused ANC members are being unfairly targeted. Picture: Sandi Kwon Hoo
THE ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) has called for the immediate suspension of ANC councillor Derick Korkie, 47, and ANC Youth League (ANCYL) regional task team convenor Kagisho Ntshinga, 27, following their arrest on assault charges.
However, their supporters believe the accusations are politically motivated, targeting the duo for advocating for new leadership ahead of the hotly contested upcoming elective conferences.
Korkie and Ntshinga were arrested and charged with assault GBH following allegations that a 31-year-old ANCYL branch member was assaulted during a branch general meeting at the Homevale community hall in Roodepan on October 30.
Both accused were granted bail of R500 each this week in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court, where their case was postponed until March 17, 2025.
Korkie’s legal representative, Chwaro Kgotlagomang, said his client would plead not guilty to the charges. He acknowledged that Korkie has two prior convictions for public violence and assault. Ntshinga also proclaimed his innocence.
The arrests come amid heightened political activity, with the ANCYL provincial conference taking place in Kuruman from November 19 to 21, the ANC Frances Baard regional conference expected to be held in March next year, and the ANC provincial conference set for around April-May 2025.
Supporters of Korkie and Ntshinga rallied outside the court, singing and cheering upon their release. They alleged that the charges were part of a "political witch-hunt", accusing detractors of attempting to block leadership changes. Korkie is reportedly a vocal supporter of Nondumiso Buda for re-election as ANC regional chairperson, while Ntshinga is contesting against Kagisho Sonyoni for ANCYL regional chairperson.
“This is a political witch-hunt. Their detractors are intent on serving a third term, they must give other individuals a chance. It is time for change,” the supporters said.
ANCWL deputy provincial secretary Onnica Matshediso urged the ANC to suspend Korkie and Ntshinga, stating that their alleged actions have damaged the "reputation, credibility, and integrity" of the party.
She commended law enforcement for their swift action in addressing what she described as a gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) incident involving a young woman.
“The behaviour of the two comrades goes against ANC policy customs and traditions. We call upon the ANC to suspend them with immediate effect and subject them to disciplinary processes. The ANC has recognised GBVF as one of the most critical issues facing South Africa and has consistently tried to address it through policy initiatives and public discourse, emphasising the need for legal reform and cultural changes.”
Matshediso called for decisive action to be taken to protect vulnerable groups, including women and children, from violence and abuse. “We implore law enforcement agencies not to leave any stone unturned in resolving GBVF matters.”
Community activist Herbert Miller believed the accused should step aside, in line with ANC policies, as they are facing serious charges.
“Only the ANCWL has been vocal about gender-based violence and femicide, the rest are silent. Whose interest is the leadership protecting - the accused or the victim’s? It is a slap in the face of women’s rights that the accused were released on R500 bail,” said Miller.
ANC provincial secretary Deshi Ngxanga noted the allegations of GBVF and the disruption to organisational processes involving members of the organisation.
“The ANC is following its own investigation to verify the allegations made. We remain committed to act against any form of GBVF wherever it rears its ugly head. We will make a pronouncement in due course,” Ngxanga stated.