Prominent Eastern Cape Clergyman and ANC Councillor Released After Domestic Violence Charges Dropped

A well-known figure within the Eastern Cape community, Reverend Phumezo Jaxa, who serves as the Minister for the National Baptist Church of South Africa and the Buffalo City Metro council's chairperson of the ethics committee, found himself embroiled in controversy following a domestic violence incident that resulted in a night spent in police custody.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, the altercation that led to Jaxa's arrest by the Mdantsane police on Sunday culminated after a dispute at a residence in NU12, Mdantsane. Despite the nature of the conflict and Jaxa residing in NU8, the victim took action by reporting the matter to the Vulindlela Police Station, pressing charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

As tensions within the community rose upon hearing the news, the incident soon navigated through the legal system with Jaxa appearing before the Mdantsane Magistrate's Court on the immediate Monday. In a turn of events, the accusations dissipated as the complainant retracted their charges against the clergyman. The National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, provided commentary on the withdrawal, illustrating that while the case was dismissed, the court still advised the victim to obtain a protection order against Jaxa.

Despite the legal absolution, the situation has not been without comment from political parties or council leadership. Jaxa acknowledged the situation stating he was at home with his family and confirmed the charges had been dropped. Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) regional secretary, Siya Rumbu, vocally condemned the actions as gender-based violence, urging victims to seek assistance from the party’s respective support desk.

As for ramifications within the political sphere, such disciplinary matters usually fall under the office of the Council Speaker. However, Humphrey Maxhegwana had yet to provide a statement at the time of this report. Furthermore, Mayor Princess Faku of the Buffalo City Metro Municipality expressed the council's standpoint, underscoring a no-tolerance stance on violence despite the retraction of charges against Councillor Jaxa.

This incident has refocused attention on the prevalence of domestic violence within South Africa and how it can intersect with individuals in positions of power and community leadership. The resolution of the case does not erase the severity of the allegation, nor the need for continued vigilance and support for victims of gender-based violence within the Eastern Cape and broader regions.