ActionSA Faces Criticism From South Africans Online After Suspending Advocate Malesela Teffo
- ActionSA Gauteng has made a decision regarding its ward candidate, Advocate Malesela Teffo
- A disciplinary process against Teffo was already underway before his arrest on 15 September
- South Africans weighed in on ActionSA's decision, with some criticising the party over Teffo's membership
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Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online.
GAUTENG — South Africans have weighed in on ActionSA's decision to suspend ward candidate Advocate Malesela Teffo with immediate effect.
The announcement was made via a media release issued by Funzi Ngobeni, ActionSA Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, on 17 September 2026.
In the statement, he confirmed that the Gauteng Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) had authorised the precautionary suspension while a formal disciplinary process continues.
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Disciplinary process preceded Teffo's arrest
The disciplinary proceedings against Teffo were not prompted solely by his arrest on 15 September 2026. The Legal Practice Council (LPC) has confirmed that a warrant of arrest has been issued for disbarred advocate Malesela Teffo, following his unauthorised appearance at the Johannesburg High Court.
Earlier in September, the party's Provincial Ethics and Disciplinary Officer (PEDO) was asked to examine concerns about Teffo's conduct after he appeared at the Johannesburg High Court wearing ActionSA regalia.
His response when Tshwane party structures requested he account for the incident added to those concerns. PEDO subsequently determined that a prima facie basis existed for the disciplinary process to proceed.
His arrest this week then presented a further development the PEC had to weigh. After receiving PEDO's guidance, the committee concluded that precautionary suspension was the appropriate course of action.
What the suspension means for Teffo
The party was explicit that the suspension does not constitute a finding of guilt. Teffo, who is currently an ActionSA ward candidate in Tshwane, retains the right to respond to the matters and the process is required to run fairly.
While the suspension is in effect, Teffo may not participate in ActionSA campaign or party activities, represent or speak on behalf of the party, or present himself as acting for ActionSA in any capacity.
"ActionSA expects its candidates and public representatives to account when serious questions are raised about their conduct. At the same time, we will not replace a proper disciplinary process with a trial through the media," Ngobeni stated in the release.
How did South Africans react?
Social media users reacted to the news, with many directing criticism toward the party.
Lawrence Bonginkosi Shabalala wrote:
"This is what happens when you chase social media people/ influencers to be your candidates. Azishe, more is to come."
Obakeng Inno Mogajane suggested:
"The comrade is not mentally well after everything he has gone through. Good decision; however, look at it differently."
Mlaka Shingange Mlaka said:
"Party of influencers. What a stokvel."
Lilly Potter added:
"If you had a vetting process, he should never have been a member in the first place. But I guess you are blinded by your right-wing and xenophobic clouds."
Karabo Jake Matlala stated:
"I was watching you inviting bad publicity. Teffo is no different from Fadiel Adams."
Teffo shows up at Vusimuzi Matlala trial
Briefly News reported that the disbarred attorney appeared uninvited at Vusimuzi Matlala's attempted murder trial.
Teffo's address left Matlala, his wife, and co-accused visibly confused as he claimed their constitutional rights had been grossly violated.
The accused instructed their own lawyers to shut down Teffo's application, with counsel arguing he had no legal standing in court.
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Source: Briefly News
