Disgraced ANC councillor Tebogo Sepale, implicated in rape charges, is scheduled to apply for bail on November 1 before the Orkney magistrate’s court in the Matlosana local municipality, North West.
Sepale, aged 43, was arrested in May following the circulation of a video allegedly depicting him engaging in sexual acts with a minor on social media. In July, he abandoned his initial bail application. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that Sepale had expressed his intention to reapply for bail after consulting with his attorney.
According to regional NPA spokesperson Henry Mamothame, investigations have been concluded, and the state is prepared to propose a date for transferring the matter to a higher court for pre-trial conferencing.
The charges against Sepale include two counts of statutory rape, three counts of violating a child without consent, one count of manufacturing pornographic material, four counts of rape, and one count of sexual intimidation. The Klerksdorp Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit are investigating the case, which involves allegations of crimen injuria and statutory rape reported at Kanana police station.
Mamothame explained that in one instance, Sepale is accused of sharing nude pictures with the complainant, while in another case, he faces two counts of statutory rape brought forward by the parents of two boys, aged 15 and 17. The state is expected to add further charges when the case is moved to the higher court.
Pending the outcome of his bail application, Sepale will remain in police custody, reinforcing the seriousness of the charges against him. The case highlights the ongoing challenges of sexual offenses within the political landscape, requiring thorough legal proceedings to address and establish accountability.
