Komani – Sivuyile Dan Plaatjie, a Ward Councillor from the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality appeared in the Ntabethemba Magistrate’s Court on 20 August following his arrest for the alleged assault of a woman at a Komani tavern, sparking widespread condemnation from political parties and municipal authorities.
According to police spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela, the incident occurred on Sunday evening, 17 August, at a tavern in Tentergate.
She said that it is alleged that an altercation between Plaatjie and the victim led to an assault and a case was opened at Ntabethemba Police Station.
Mgolodela further said that investigations ensued, and Plaatjie was arrested on 19 August for assault to cause grievous bodily harm.
Plaatjie appeared before the Ntabethemba Magistrate’s Court on 20 August, and was remanded in custody until 27 August for a bail application.
The Democratic Alliance’s Enoch Mgijima Constituency Leader, Chantel King (MPL), strongly condemned the incident, calling it a betrayal of public trust.
“This act of violence is not only a crime, but if the allegations are substantiated, it also constitutes a betrayal of the duties that elected representatives owe to the people they serve and protect,” said King.
“The Eastern Cape is in the grip of a gender-based violence crisis and a zero-tolerance approach must be followed regarding such crimes against women.”
She highlighted the severity of gender-based violence in the area, alleging that 158 cases of rape were reported between April 2024 and March 2025 in Komani, with alcohol abuse contributing to increased domestic violence.
“We urge all other political parties, community leaders and public institutions to reinforce their commitment to eradicating gender-based violence by promoting accountability, respect and a culture of zero tolerance for abuse,” said King.
Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality communications manager Lonwabo Kowa said the municipality had received the reports “with deep concern and outrage.”
“The alleged act is not only a criminal offence under South African law but constitutes a serious breach of the Municipal Council Code of Conduct, ethical standards, and public trust,” said Kowa.
“The Municipality unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, particularly gender-based violence, which continues to plague communities across the country.”
Kowa confirmed that the Office of the Speaker has initiated an internal review and will monitor developments in the criminal justice process.
“The Municipality will fully cooperate with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the judiciary to ensure that due process is upheld,” said Kowa.
“Once the legal proceedings have advanced and findings are available, the Council will take appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the Municipal Systems Act, the Code of Conduct for Councillors, and other relevant legislation.”
The incident occurred during Women’s Month, which Kowa described as “especially distressing” given the timing.
“We extend our full support to the victim and urge all stakeholders, including community members, civil society, and law enforcement to stand together in rejecting violence against women and girls. It is imperative that we create safe spaces where survivors can speak out without fear and where perpetrators are held accountable,” said Kowa.
He further requested that the public refrain from speculation and allow the SAPS and the courts to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
Mgolodela provided context on the broader fight against gender-based violence in the area, revealing that the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit achieved an 82.35% conviction rate out of 240 sexual offence cases reported in the 2024/2025 financial year.
“Most sentences range from 20 years to life imprisonment,” said Mgolodela.
She further acknowledged challenges, including excessive alcohol consumption as a contributory factor and the rate of withdrawal of criminal cases by complainants.
