Rustenburg - North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo has approached the court to stop his detractors – the North West Business Forum – from publishing any "defamatory" statements against him.
Mahumapelo has approached the High Court in Pretoria to seek an interdict on an urgent basis. In his affidavit the premier states that if the matter is placed on the ordinary roll it would only be heard towards the end of July. This would afford leaders of the North West business Forum ample opportunity to carry out their threats against him. The four leaders would also have time to continue with threats and their unlawful actions, states Mahumapelo.
The North West Business Forum is calling for Mahumapelo, whom they accuse of corruption, to resign from his position as the premier of North West. Previously, the business forum demanded Mahumapelo's resignation from his premier position before February 14. He did not do so.
The forum tried to march to the seat of North West provincial government, where they intended to eject Mahumapelo, but they were thwarted by ANC Youth League members.
The North West Business Forum, chairperson Fana Moraka, secretary Sello Mogodiri, founding member and former Ngaka Modiri Molema mayor, Themba Gwabeni and treasurer Oupa Mphomane have all been served with court papers.
Mahumapelo wants the court to declare remarks by the forum alleging that he is corrupt and that he has undue influence in the awarding of tenders as "defamatory".
Mogodiri said the forum will oppose Mahumapelo's interdict application.
"We are disappointed that the premier wants to silence us, in fighting corruption. His time to lead the North West has lapsed. We are waiting for his resignation letter," Mogodiri said.
"He is a premier during the day, a businessman at night and a private citizen when he approaches the court."
Mogodiri said the forum will reveal in court details of its corruption claims against Mahumapelo.
He also challenged Mahumapelo to undergo a lifestyle audit. The Court was expected to hear the matter on or before the March 14.