Inxuba Yethemba Mayor breaks silence on “political abuse” allegations

The Executive Mayor of Inxuba Yethemba Municipality, Councillor Noncedo Zonke, has sparked a firestorm within the ANC after a letter surfaced detailing allegations of “organised humiliation” and emotional abuse within the party’s Chris Hani Region.

The letter, addressed to ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula and ANCWL President Sisisi Tolashe, outlines a series of grievances where the Mayor claims she has been subjected to public verbal attacks and systematic undermining by male counterparts.

Allegations of Hostility

In the document, Cllr Zonke describes the environment within the regional leadership as “painful,” alleging that she is frequently insulted in front of branches and organizational structures.

She claims there is a deliberate attempt to shame her in front of subordinates rather than addressing administrative issues through professional channels.

Service Delivery and Scapegoating

The Mayor also used the letter to address the ongoing water crisis in Middelburg. She argues that she is being unfairly blamed for dry taps, asserting that the Inxuba Yethemba Municipality received no water support allocation from the district in the current financial year.

She further claims that her efforts to assist residents—such as procuring a water truck—were met with accusations that she was mobilizing the community against officials.

Legislative Pressure

A significant portion of the complaint involves allegations of being pressured to bypass legal protocols. Cllr Zonke states in the letter that when she refuses to act outside the law, she is labeled as “defiant.” She also alleges that certain councillors have worked with opposition parties to destabilise the council and delay decision-making.

Mayor’s Response

When contacted for comment by veteran journalist Tembile Sgqolana, Mayor Zonke confirmed the sensitivity of the situation.

While acknowledging the grievances raised, she maintained a disciplined party line regarding the current status of the complaint.

“The organisation is still dealing with the matter internally,” she said.

The ANC regional leadership has not yet released an official statement regarding the Mayor’s letter or the allegations of gender-based political abuse.