ActionSA has placed its Tshwane ward candidate and disbarred advocate Malesela Teffo on precautionary suspension with immediate effect, following his arrest in a contempt of court matter.

The decision was announced on Thursday by ActionSA Gauteng provincial chairperson Funzi Ngobeni, who clarified that the suspension regulates Teffo’s participation and status within the party while an internal disciplinary process is underway.

Notably, the party’s internal investigation into Teffo was already in progress prior to his arrest on Tuesday.

ActionSA emphasised that the precautionary suspension does not constitute a finding of guilt.

"Teffo will have an opportunity to respond to the matters before the Provincial Ethics and Disciplinary Officer (PEDO), and the process must be allowed to run fairly," Ngobeni stated.

While the suspension remains in effect, Teffo is barred from participating in any ActionSA campaigns or party activities, representing or speaking on behalf of ActionSA and presenting himself as an active representative of the party.

According to Ngobeni, concerns regarding Teffo's conduct were initially referred to the party’s PEDO earlier this month.

The referral followed an incident where Teffo appeared at the Johannesburg High Court wearing ActionSA regalia.

When the party's Tshwane structures requested an explanation regarding the courtroom appearance, Teffo's subsequent response prompted further scrutiny.

Following an initial review, PEDO determined that a prima facie basis existed to move forward with a formal disciplinary process.

Teffo’s arrest earlier this week introduced new variables that ActionSA’s Gauteng Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) had to evaluate.

After reviewing advice from PEDO alongside these latest developments, the PEC concluded that a precautionary suspension was the most appropriate course of action while the internal process concludes.

PEDO has been instructed to expedite the matter and report its findings back to the PEC urgently.

ActionSA reiterated its stance on public accountability, asserting that its candidates and public representatives must answer for their actions when serious questions are raised.

However, the party maintained that it would respect due process.

“We will not replace a proper disciplinary process with a trial through the media. We will communicate further once the disciplinary process has reached the appropriate stage.”