Rustenburg - A court in Rustenburg heard on Friday how an African National Congress (ANC) councillor allegedly attacked members from a rival political party who had tried to campaign in the area earlier this month.
During the bail application of ANC councillor, Luvuyo Tolo Maqwane, accused of intimidating and assaulting members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on July 15 at the Popo Molefe informal settlement near Rustenburg, the court heard how he allegedly smashed the windscreen shield of a car with a stone.
Maqwane, 54, is charged with malicious damaged to property, intimidation and assault.
The Rustenburg Magistrate’s court heard how he allegedly smashed the windscreen shield of a car in an attempt to stop EFF members from entering the informal settlement where they were intent on campaigning ahead of the EFF’s second anniversary rally which is to be held in Olympia Park Stadium on Saturday.
“The councillor smashed the windscreen of my car on the right side, before that he told me other political parties were not allowed in Popo Molefe,” said Stanley Komapi.
Komapi, 35, from Soshanguve, north of Pretoria, told the court Maqwane led five men armed with spears, sjamboks and stones. The group confronted the EFF members and told them they were not welcome in the area.
“I was driving the lead car, the group told me to turn back as the place was a no go area for other political parties… When I proceeded driving he smashed my windscreen.”
He said Maqwane called other community members and the EFF members tried to negotiate with Maqwane but he was aggressive. They then laid charges at the Boitekong police station.
In his affidavit read in court, Maqwane said he would plead not guilty to the charges against him.
He further stated that he would relocate from Sunrise Park to Boitekong to stay with his cousin until his case was finalised and he would not interfere with the police investigation or State witness and that he would not run away from his trial.
The case was postponed to Monday. The State is opposing the bail application.
ANA