Gwede Mantashe Has Sent Strong Message to All ANC Councillors this Evening

Gwede Mantashe Calls for Prison Sentences for Councillors Demanding Sexual Favours for Jobs

African National Congress (ANC) heavyweight Gwede Mantashe has called for strict legal action against councillors accused of demanding sexual favours from job seekers in exchange for employment opportunities. He insists that public officials found guilty of such misconduct should face imprisonment.

Mantashe condemned the alleged abuse of authority, stressing that public office must never become a tool for exploiting vulnerable individuals. He emphasised that elected representatives have a responsibility to serve communities with integrity, respect human dignity and remain accountable for their actions.

He urged anyone aware of councillors engaging in such behaviour to report the matter to the appropriate authorities. According to Mantashe, allegations should be investigated thoroughly, and those against whom sufficient evidence is established should be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

“Any councillor who promises jobs in exchange for sexual favours must be reported, investigated, prosecuted &, if found guilty, imprisoned,” Mantashe said.

He further stressed that exploiting people who desperately need employment is unacceptable and contradicts the principles expected of public representatives.

“Public office must never be abused to exploit vulnerable people. Ethical leadership & respect for human dignity is non-negotiable,” he said.

His comments have drawn attention to concerns about the potential misuse of political authority at the local government level, particularly where access to employment is allegedly tied to demands for personal or sexual benefits.

South Africa continues to face significant unemployment challenges, leaving many people struggling to secure stable jobs. In such circumstances, individuals seeking work may be particularly vulnerable when dealing with people who control or influence access to employment opportunities.

Allegations of sexual exploitation involving public officials raise serious questions about ethical conduct, the protection of job seekers and the need for effective accountability mechanisms. If proven, such actions can undermine confidence in local government and discourage vulnerable citizens from seeking assistance through public institutions.

Mantashe’s call also highlights the importance of providing safe and accessible reporting channels for victims and witnesses. Authorities must ensure that complaints are handled professionally, investigations are conducted fairly and individuals who report alleged misconduct are protected from intimidation or retaliation.

His message is that public representatives must use their positions to serve communities rather than take advantage of people facing economic hardship.

The warning reinforces the expectation that councillors should be held accountable under the law when misconduct is established, with imprisonment among the consequences Mantashe believes should apply to those convicted of demanding sexual favours in exchange for employment.

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