ANC MEMBER ASSAULTED HIS DAUGHTER AND PARTNER

Zolile Xalisa (54), a former EFF MP who later joined the ANC, was arrested following an alleged assault in Ezibeleni (Komani/Queenstown area, Eastern Cape).

The primary victim reported is his 44-year-old partner/girlfriend, Sandiswa Mkhwambi. He allegedly assaulted her with fists and a stick, causing injuries (swollen face, bruises, cuts).

He then allegedly locked her inside his house for hours (from around 08:00 the next morning), preventing her from leaving or reporting the incident.

He was arrested and appeared in the Ezibeleni Magistrate’s Court on 10 June 2026. The case was postponed/remanded (reports mention further appearances, including around 11–12 June for bail).

He faced assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) related to domestic violence.

Some coverage references additional elements like locking her up (which could tie into kidnapping or related charges in the full docket).

The case sparked significant community outrage, with the ANC Women’s League, local ANC structures, EFF in the region, SADTU, and residents condemning the alleged GBV. Community members gathered at court opposing bail, and he was reportedly denied bail in at least one hearing