ActionSA’s mayoral hopeful for Ekurhuleni, Xolani Khumalo, is back out on the streets after the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court granted him R2000 bail.
The court appearance came on Monday, 19 January 2026, where Khumalo faced serious charges including assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and pointing a firearm.
Surrendering to Police
Khumalo turned himself in to authorities in Katlehong, showing his willingness to cooperate with the legal process.
His arrest stems from an incident connected to a drug-bust operation that took place in 2025.
The Alleged Drug-Bust Incident
The charges against Khumalo relate to a suspected drug dealer who was apprehended with unlicensed ammunition during a raid last year.
ActionSA has pushed back against the allegations, claiming that the accused later filed a false assault charge.
“Police found unlicensed ammunition and arrested the suspect.
Instead of being formally charged, the suspect was released and even had the ammunition returned,” a party statement read.
“The suspect then filed an unfounded assault claim against Khumalo, which the authorities are now investigating.”
Khumalo Vows to Continue Fighting Crime
Speaking to the media after his release, Khumalo remained defiant and focused on his political mission.
“We are going to continue fighting drugs because we want to realise a drug-free South Africa. This is for our children.
If they want to stop us, they will have to find another way,” he said, underscoring his commitment to tackling crime in Ekurhuleni.
Court Date Pushed to February
The legal proceedings have been postponed to 16 February 2026, giving both sides time to prepare their cases.
ActionSA Shows Strong Support
ActionSA’s parliamentary chief whip, Lerato Ngobeni, spoke in solidarity with Khumalo, emphasising that the party believes the charges are baseless.
“We are proud of our activists who showed up in support of Xolani.
This demonstrates our collective commitment to fighting drugs, drug cartels, and lawlessness in Ekurhuleni,” Ngobeni said.
Political Implications
While Khumalo focuses on the legal battle ahead, the party’s statement makes it clear that they stand firmly behind their candidate.
They view his continued activism against crime as central to their vision for a safer, drug-free South Africa.
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