By OBAKENG MAJE
17 February 2025- The ANC in North West has succumbed to the ANCWL’s pressure as suspended Tswaing Local Municipality mayor, Norah Mahlangu returns to work. The ANC in North West, suspended Mahlangu after she was seen in a scandalous nude video that went viral, where she was found to be in a compromising position.
In the video, Mahlangu was seen taking off her bra and tights and playing with her punani. The video was immensely shared across various social media platforms.
This prompted the ANC in the province to put Mahlangu on a month-long suspension for putting the party into disrepute.
However, the ANCWL Provincial Task Team (PTT) in North West came out guns blazing in defence of suspended Mahlangu. The ANCWL PTT coordinator, Nombuyiselo Adoons said they will not leave this matter lying down.
Adoons said Mhlangu is a victim here and she cannot be victimised.
“We wish to express our deepest concern regarding the recent victimization of Mahlangu, who found herself at the centre of a distressing situation following the unauthorized leaking of her private, intimate video by individuals once considered close friends.
“Such conduct is a blatant violation of her privacy and dignity, and constitutes a serious infringement on her rights. It is disheartening that, despite being the clear victim in this matter, Mahlangu has been instructed to take a special leave,” she said.
Adoons said they believe this decision not only undermines her position as mayor, but also perpetuates a harmful culture wherein victims of privacy violations are punished rather than supported. She said Mahlangu has already demonstrated good faith and accountability by submitting an apology to the ANC and to the community of Tswaing and the province.
“We call upon the ANC to treat this letter with the gravity it deserves and to recognise that Mahlangu’s actions and statements illustrate her commitment to the party and the community she serves.
“We therefore demand that the ANC withdraw its letter calling for Mahlangu’s special leave with immediate effect. We urge the organisation to stand firmly by its commitment to protect and empower women and to uphold the rights and dignity of its members,” said Adoons.
She said the leaking of private material without consent is a criminal act and must be addressed as such. Adoons said victims should be supported, not further traumatised through administrative or disciplinary measures.
“We stand in solidarity with Mahlangu and call on all relevant authorities and party structures to take decisive steps against the perpetrators.
“We further request that the ANC institute clear protocols to support members, who fall victim to such invasions of privacy, ensuring that survivors are not isolated or re-victimised,” she said.
Now, the ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo said: “They are pleased to announce the return of Mahlangu to her position as the mayor of Tswaing Local Municipality following her special leave. We welcome her back with open arms after an unfortunate mishap and look forward to her continued leadership and dedication to the community.
“Mahlangu has been a steadfast advocate for the residents of Tswaing, demonstrating unwavering commitment to service delivery, community engagement, and local development. Her return comes at a crucial time as the municipality faces various challenges that require experienced and compassionate leadership.”
Diremelo further said the ANC is confident that Mahlangu’s leadership will bring renewed energy and focus to the municipality and they encourage all residents to support her in her efforts to improve the lives of the people of Tswaing. He added that they also extend their gratitude to the acting leadership during her absence for their service and dedication to the municipality.
“The ANC remains committed to ensuring that our municipalities are responsive and accountable to the communities they serve,” said Diremelo.
The Guardian 