Norah Mahlangu, the mayor of Tswaing Local Municipality in South Africa’s North West Province, has taken a one-month leave following the circulation of a leaked private video that spread through an ANC WhatsApp group.
The video reportedly showed Mahlangu in a compromising situation, leaving her deeply embarrassed and struggling with emotional distress. Sources close to her say the intense public attention and online backlash have affected her mental health, prompting her decision to step away from official duties for a while.
Reports suggest the video was originally shared with a man believed to be her romantic partner. It is alleged that he later attempted to use it for extortion, and when she refused to give in to his demands, the clip was distributed to her political opponents.
Before taking leave, Mahlangu had made her last public appearance at a funeral, where she called for a full investigation into the deaths of two municipal employees. The municipality has not yet announced who will temporarily handle her duties during her absence.
